TAMPA — With the regular season about a month away, Yankees right-hander Cam Schlittler made important progress Wednesday in his preparation to start the year. After struggling recently with a mid-back and left lat inflammation, the 25-year-old pitched 25 live batting practice throws, facing hitters for the first time since being held back two weeks ago.
The Yankees and Schlittler both remained cautious but optimistic, ensuring the minor flare-up wouldn’t worsen while limiting his workload. If he responds well to Wednesday’s outing, Schlittler is expected to face batters again on Sunday and could make his Grapefruit League debut late next week, inching closer to full season readiness.
Manager Aaron Boone Shares Confidence Despite Workload Limits
Before Schlittler took the mound for the batting practice session, Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed encouraging expectations for the young pitcher.
“I expect him to be good [for the start of the season],”
Boone said. He acknowledged Schlittler might not yet be able to handle a full 80 to 90 pitch outing, but emphasized,
“Now, I don’t think he’ll be to 80-90 pitches yet. … But I’ll take 70 pitches of Cam Schlittler, especially with some of the off-days you have. Even if you’re in a piggyback situation for a time or two, sign me up for that.”
The Yankees have some scheduling flexibility early in the season, with four off-days before their 10th game, reducing immediate pressure to carry a full five-man rotation. Still, they plan to utilize Schlittler as soon as he is physically ready.
Other Player Updates: Utilityman Oswaldo Cabrera and Prospects Progressing
Beyond Schlittler, Oswaldo Cabrera continues his recovery from a broken ankle and ligament damage suffered last May. Boone noted the utility player is making visible improvements and could rejoin game action by the end of next week.
“I feel like he’s made real improvements the last couple weeks. So possibly at the back end of next week, maybe getting into games. I know he’s starting to feel really good. It’s just getting that last level of burst,”
Boone said.
Meanwhile, top prospects Anthony Volpe and Jasson Domínguez are advancing their hitting routines. Volpe, who is just over a week into his hitting progression, is working with soft toss and tee drills and is reported to be doing well by Boone’s account.
The Significance of Schlittler’s Progress for the Yankees’ Season Outlook
Schlittler’s ability to rebound from his inflammation and return to facing hitters marks a pivotal moment in maintaining the Yankees’ pitching depth heading into the season. As a 25-year-old right-hander, his health and readiness are vital in a pitching staff that might initially ease him into his role, possibly utilizing piggyback starts to manage his innings. Successfully navigating these final steps could solidify Schlittler’s spot on the opening day roster, offering the Yankees reliable support as they aim to contend.
Following Sunday’s projected live batting session, Schlittler’s potential Grapefruit League debut will provide further clarity on his status. Meanwhile, updates on players like Cabrera and Volpe paint an encouraging picture of the Yankees’ depth and recovery efforts heading into spring training’s most critical weeks.
