Historic Start in Bronx Spotlight
In Game 3 of the 2025 AL Wild Card Series, the Yankees turned to Cam Schlittler in an elimination scenario. At 24 years old, and in just his 15th major-league start, he answered the moment in emphatic fashion.
- 8.0 innings, 5 hits, 0 runs, 0 walks
- 12 strikeouts — setting a Yankees rookie playoff debut record
- Threw 107 pitches, 75 of them for strikes
- Fastballs regularly touched triple digits, including a top mark of 100.8 mph
- Became the first pitcher in postseason history to record an 8+ inning, 12+ strikeout, zero-walk line in a game
New York advance, 4–0.
Key Plays & Team Support
The Yankees offense struck in the fourth inning, taking advantage of Boston miscues and small-ball execution. The scoring included RBI singles by Amed Rosario and Anthony Volpe, and a costly error by Boston’s first baseman Nathaniel Lowe allowed two additional runs.
Defensively, Ryan McMahon made a highlight play by tracking down a foul pop in the eighth, diving into the Red Sox dugout in the process.
Boston starter Connelly Early was knocked around — he allowed multiple runs in 3⅔ innings and couldn’t contain New York’s late surge.
Reliever David Bednar closed it out with a spotless ninth to seal the game.
Voice from the Field
“I was locked in. I knew exactly what I needed to do and go out there, especially against my hometown team,” Schlittler said after the game.
Manager Aaron Boone praised the performance bluntly:
“A star is born tonight. He’s a special kid, man. He is not afraid. He expects this.”
Season Context & What's Next
During the 2025 regular season, Schlittler posted a 2.96 ERA with a 1.22 WHIP and recorded 84 strikeouts over 73 innings in 14 starts.
The Yankees now prepare for Game 4 of the ALDS, where they’ll face the Toronto Blue Jays. Schlittler’s workload and rest will be monitored carefully as the team considers leaning on his momentum.