Yankees Plan MLB Debut for Pitcher Cam Schlittler Amid Rotation Injuries

The New York Yankees plan to promote 24-year-old right-handed pitcher Cam Schlittler to make his major league starting debut at home against the Mariners, addressing their ongoing rotation crisis exacerbated by Clarke Schmidt's likely Tommy John surgery. Schlittler has impressed with a 3.52 ERA across Double-A and Triple-A this season, showcasing strong performances despite a recent difficult outing, and has been praised by Yankees manager Aaron Boone as an "exciting pitcher" who has "certainly put himself in the mix" for a rotation spot. The Yankees currently have Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, and Will Warren as rotation mainstays, but with Schmidt injured and other starters like Luis Gil and Ryan Yarbrough on the injured list or rehabbing, acquiring another starter before the July 31 trade deadline remains a priority. Schlittler, a 6-foot-6 seventh-round pick in 2022, impressed in spring training and has continued to perform well in the minors, earning him consideration over other options such as Allan Winans and Carlos Carrasco. The team expects to fill Schmidt's rotation slot at least temporarily before the All-Star break, potentially turning to Schlittler for his upside despite his non-40-man roster status. This move is part of the Yankees’ broader efforts to stabilize their pitching staff amid multiple injuries and inconsistent performances.