Here’s a bold statement: the New York Yankees’ pitching rotation is facing a season of uncertainty, and it’s all kicking off with Cam Schlittler’s health concerns. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some see his back inflammation and lat issue as a minor setback, others worry it could derail the team’s early-season plans. Let’s dive in.
Cam Schlittler, the Yankees’ rising star, made a splash in his major league debut on July 9, posting an impressive 4-3 record with a 2.96 ERA across 14 starts. His fastball, averaging a blistering 98 mph, helped him strike out 84 batters while walking just 31 in 73 innings. One of his standout performances came in the Wild Card Series, where he pitched eight shutout innings against the Boston Red Sox (source: Boston Globe). However, he allowed four runs (two earned) over 6 1/3 innings in the Division Series against Toronto. And this is the part most people miss—despite his success, Schlittler’s workload last year, including 164 innings pitched (postseason included), was well above his previous professional high of 120 2/3 innings in 2024. Could this be a factor in his current injury?
Manager Aaron Boone remains optimistic, stating, ‘Obviously, we’re very excited about him and expect him to be a key part of our rotation.’ Schlittler recently underwent tests that Boone described as ‘good news,’ but he’ll likely stay off the mound for the next few days while continuing his throwing program. Schlittler himself described the issue as ‘minor inflammation’ and ‘maybe more lat, as well,’ adding that he hopes to pitch off a mound next week. When asked if he’d dealt with this before, he mentioned ‘some on-and-off stuff last year.’ His mindset? ‘For now, it’s just good to take care of it and make sure it doesn’t turn into something bigger.’
The Yankees’ rotation woes don’t end with Schlittler. Ace Gerrit Cole is recovering from Tommy John surgery and won’t be back until at least the first half of the season. Carlos Rodón, who underwent surgery to remove loose bodies in his left elbow and shave a bone spur, is unlikely to return before May. And Clarke Schmidt? He’s out for much of the season after UCL repair surgery. Here’s a thought-provoking question: With so many key pitchers sidelined, is the Yankees’ rotation depth being tested too early?
New York’s projected starting rotation for the March 25 season opener includes Max Fried, Schlittler, Luis Gil, Will Warren, and Ryan Weathers. Gil, the 2024 AL Rookie of the Year, knows the struggle—he missed the start of last season with a lat injury. Schlittler’s journey to this point is equally compelling. After attending big league spring training last year, he started at Double-A Somerset before a June 3 promotion to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Just five starts later, he was called up to the majors. ‘Last year was more about learning and gaining experience,’ he said. ‘Now, I feel like I’ve earned my role. I know exactly what I need to do.’
In other Yankees news, Paul Goldschmidt is back on a $4 million, one-year deal, with up to $2 million in performance bonuses tied to plate appearances. The seven-time All-Star and 2022 NL MVP hit .274 with 10 homers and 45 RBIs last season, though his playing time dipped after the All-Star break. With Goldschmidt’s return, the Yankees have brought back 24 of the 26 players from last October’s Division Series roster, losing only relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver. Clarke Schmidt was placed on the 60-day injured list to make room.
Here’s a controversial take: Is the Yankees’ reliance on veteran players like Goldschmidt a smart move, or are they overlooking younger talent? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. One thing’s for sure—this season is shaping up to be a rollercoaster for Yankees fans, and it hasn’t even started yet.
