Yankees Lose Series Opener to Blue Jays as Schlittler Allows Four Runs

The New York Yankees suffered a 7-1 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in the series opener, largely due to a poor start by rookie pitcher Cam Schlittler, who lasted only 1.2 innings and allowed four runs on five hits. Schlittler struggled with pitch count and long at-bats, particularly in a rough first inning where the Blue Jays scored three runs, contributing to the Yankees falling four games behind Toronto in the AL East. Despite Schlittler's early success this season, including holding opponents to three runs or fewer in his first nine starts, his performance against the Blue Jays highlighted ongoing issues with perfectionism and overthinking pitches under pressure. Giancarlo Stanton provided a brief spark with a solo home run, while Aaron Judge returned to right field and contributed a single and a walk. Reliever Ryan Yarbrough stabilized the game after Schlittler's exit, pitching 5.1 innings with only one run allowed. The Yankees aim to rebound in the following games against the Blue Jays as they continue their playoff push, with Schlittler expressing confidence in improved performance despite recent struggles.