The New York Yankees find themselves in a familiar predicament as they navigate the complexities of player injuries, with right-hander Cam Schlittler at the center of attention. Schlittler's battle with back and lat soreness dates back to the summer of 2025, a fact that has only recently come to light, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Schlittler, who missed a bullpen session at the start of spring training due to "mid-back" and "lat" soreness, has been taking a cautious approach. Although he hasn't stopped throwing entirely, he's been dialing down the intensity.
His commitment to transparency was evident when he addressed the situation on social media, reassuring fans of his progress. Despite his optimism, Schlittler hasn't yet faced live hitters, which puts him behind schedule.
According to reports, Schlittler has been receiving regular treatment to tackle the issue head-on. The Yankees' decision to manage this injury carefully is crucial, especially given Schlittler's tendency to push through pain. It's noted that he ignored the problem after a flare-up late last summer, which might have contributed to its persistence.
The soreness subsided after the Yankees' postseason run but returned when Schlittler reported to spring training in Florida. Reflecting on his offseason, Schlittler admitted, “I didn’t really take enough time off in late October. I never gave it a chance to feel 100 percent.”
While the injury hasn't affected his throwing arm or ability to maintain velocity, it has hindered his plans to learn new pitches. This setback might lead to a stint on the Injured List if he can't participate in live games soon, especially with Carlos Rodón and Gerrit Cole also dealing with their own issues.
The Yankees, known for their depth, are well-equipped to handle early-season challenges in the rotation. However, the revelation of Schlittler's ongoing struggle since his breakout year in 2025 underscores why fans often approach initial injury reports with skepticism. The key now is for the Yankees to balance patience with progress, ensuring Schlittler returns to form without rushing the process.