Cam Schlittler, that young Yankees right-hander, is just one start away from carving his name right next to Ron Guidry in the franchise’s history books. This isn’t just some good season; what Schlittler is doing in 2026 has already blown past even the wildest expectations.
From Seventh Rounder to All-Star Ace
Remember last year? Schlittler, a seventh-round pick from 2022, rocketed through the minors and made his debut in July 2025. He put up a solid 2.96 ERA over 14 starts. But it was his absolutely electric performance in Game 3 of the AL Wild Card series against the Boston Red Sox that really made everyone sit up and take notice. Who could’ve predicted he’d elevate his game *this* much from that winner-take-all showing? Nobody, that’s who. He’s somehow managed to tone down the walks and seriously pump up the strikeouts this year. The kid is just 25 years old!
A 1.94 ERA and a Cy Young Award Are Locked In?
Now, heading into his 33rd and final regular season start on Thursday against the Tampa Bay Rays, Schlittler is poised for something truly special. According to Gary Phillips from NY Daily News, this All-Star can become only the third Yankees starting pitcher ever to finish a season with an ERA below 2.00. That’s *history* right there. Across his 32 starts, Schlittler’s rocking a 14-6 record with an insane 1.94 ERA. He’s tossed 190 ⅔ innings, piled up 234 strikeouts, and walked just 47 batters. And get this: the way he’s pitching, he’s practically guaranteed to win the AL Cy Young Award when they announce it in November. If he does, he’ll be the seventh Yankee to earn that honor, joining his teammate Gerrit Cole, who won it in 2023. This is pure dominance.
Red Sox Rematch? Schlittler’s Postseason Role Is Crucial
The New York Yankees are locked in as the No. 4 seed in the AL, meaning they’ll host the No. 5 seed in the Wild Card round. The winner of that best-of-three series advances to face the Rays in the Division Series, which kicks off on October 3. All signs point to a rematch of last year’s Wild Card battle against the Boston Red Sox in the Bronx. Schlittler, a Massachusetts native, has been absolutely lights out against his hometown team in his brief career, sporting a 3-1 record with a ridiculous 0.56 ERA and 39 strikeouts. Given he’s taking the mound Thursday versus Tampa Bay, it’s likely he won’t pitch Game 1 against Boston next Tuesday. Expect him to be lined up for Game 2 on Wednesday, ready to bring the heat when the stakes are highest.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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