Cam Schlittler continues to write memorable chapters in his short Major League career. The New York Yankees rookie was the star of the night after pitching eight scoreless innings and striking out 12 batters in a 4-0 victory over the Boston Red Sox, a game full of history and rivalry.
And one of the first to recognize his brilliant performance was none other than David Ortiz, a Red Sox icon and Hall of Famer. Just hours after the game, “Big Papi” was approached by reporters at Los Angeles Airport (LAX), where he did not hesitate to praise the young opposing pitcher.“He got it, brother. He got it. He got it,” Ortiz said with a smile. “He was abusing us last night.” Words that, coming from a Boston legend, represent one of the greatest recognitions a Bronx rookie can receive.
A performance to remember
Schlittler’s dominance was total. In eight full innings, he did not allow a run, did not walk a batter and kept one of the most dangerous offenses in the American League East at bay. His fastball, which peaked at 98 mph, and his surgical control made the difference in a do-or-die game for New York.
With this victory, the Yankees stay alive in the postseason and advance to the divisional series against the Toronto Blue Jays, where Schlittler could again play a key role.
The rookie, who had already shown flashes of greatness during the regular season, is confirming that he has the mettle to pitch under pressure. In his first campaign with the Yankees, he posted a 2.96 ERA in 14 starts and a 4-3 record, numbers that support the excitement he has generated among fans and pundits alike.
Ortiz confident in Boston’s rebuild
Despite the blow suffered by the Red Sox, David Ortiz did not lose faith in the future of the team. In subsequent statements, the former designated hitter said that Boston is “a few tweaks away from competing again”.
“We’re not too far off from where we need to be,” he said. “We just need to add some thunder in free agency and we’ll be ready for 2026.”
Meanwhile, Ortiz will have to live with his eternal rivals in the Fox Sports booth, where he will share playoff coverage with Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter, two Yankees legends.
A new ace in the Bronx
What is clear is that the Yankees have found in Cam Schlittler more than just a young arm. His confidence, consistency and dominance in key moments has quickly made him one of the most promising pitching names in MLB.
And if someone like David Ortiz – one of the most feared batsmen of his generation – says that “he’s got it,” the rest of baseball should probably start believing it too.
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