Rafael Devers certainly had a whirlwind of a year in 2025, but it's 2026 that's starting with a bang. On Friday afternoon, Devers faced off against Cam Schlittler, the promising Yankees pitcher who made waves with an impressive rookie season after his debut last July. This matchup took place in Game 2 of the Yankees' opening series against the Giants at Oracle Park.
As Devers stepped up to the plate, Schlittler wasted no time showing off his heat. He opened with a blazing 100 mph fastball right down the middle.
Devers, known for his power, couldn't quite connect. Schlittler followed up with another fiery 99 mph fastball at the top of the zone, and once again, Devers swung and missed, quickly finding himself in an 0-2 hole.
On the third pitch, Schlittler kept the pressure on with another 99 mph fastball, this time painting the low outside corner. Devers chose to let it go, and initially, the umpire called it a ball. However, Yankees catcher Austin Wells challenged the call using the ABS system, and the decision was overturned to strike three.
While Devers is slated to be the Giants' starting first baseman, he's kicking off the season as the designated hitter. Giants manager Tony Vitello mentioned that while Devers is fit to play in the field, they're opting for caution early in the season. "I think if he had to today, he definitely could," Vitello said, emphasizing the importance of communication with the medical staff and making strategic decisions for the long haul.
Devers missed part of spring training due to a hamstring issue, and it seems he's still shaking off some rust, going 1-for-8 in the first two games. But knowing Devers, it’s only a matter of time before he finds his rhythm and starts making noise at the plate.