Yankees Spring Training Update: Cam Schlittler’s Setback, Cole’s Surprise Progress, and Stanton’s Clean Slate
Spring training has barely started, and the Yankees already have a few storylines brewing-some encouraging, others a little concerning. While the early days in Tampa have mostly delivered positive vibes, the team is keeping a close eye on right-hander Cam Schlittler, who’s dealing with some back inflammation that will keep him off the mound for a few days.
Manager Aaron Boone shared that Schlittler “felt a tweak here and there,” and while that phrase might sound minor, the Yankees aren’t taking any chances. He’ll continue throwing, but not from the mound until the inflammation settles down.
This doesn’t appear to be a major issue, but it’s something to watch. Schlittler is heading into a pivotal second year, and the Yankees are hoping he can take a significant step forward.
His development could be a quiet X-factor for a pitching staff that’s expected to carry serious weight this season. For him to be ready for the grind of 162 games, a full spring workload is key.
The team’s cautious approach now could pay off in the long run.
Gerrit Cole’s Comeback Timeline Gets a Boost
Now for the kind of update that turns heads: Gerrit Cole might be ahead of schedule.
The reigning AL Cy Young winner underwent Tommy John surgery last March, and most projections had him returning sometime around midseason-June was the optimistic target. But Boone revealed this week that Cole could actually pitch in games before the end of spring training. That’s a development nobody saw coming.
If that happens, it would be a massive step forward in Cole’s rehab. It also speaks volumes about his work ethic and durability. This is a guy who’s built his career on consistency and preparation, and it looks like that’s showing up once again in his recovery process.
Still, the Yankees aren’t about to rush him. As much as fans might want to circle an earlier date on the calendar, the focus remains on the big picture.
Cole’s value lies in being healthy and dominant when it matters most-in October. A few spring innings would be a bonus, not a signal to accelerate his return.
The Yankees need him for the long haul.
Giancarlo Stanton: Ready to Roll
Giancarlo Stanton’s injury history has been well-documented, and last year’s double elbow issue was just the latest in a frustrating stretch of setbacks. But there’s finally some good news on that front: Stanton is a full participant as spring training gets underway.
Boone confirmed that the slugger is “a full go,” and that’s no small thing for a player who’s battled through soft tissue injuries and wear and tear for the better part of five seasons. After missing the first two and a half months of 2025, Stanton is starting 2026 with a clean slate.
Now, expectations should still be tempered. Banking on 130+ games from Stanton might be asking too much at this stage in his career. But having him healthy and active from Day 1 is a major win for the Yankees-especially considering the team’s current roster construction.
With a lineup heavy on left-handed bats, Stanton’s presence from the right side adds much-needed balance. And with his time in pinstripes likely nearing its end, there’s a sense of urgency-and maybe even a little sentimentality-in seeing him healthy and locked in to begin the season.
Bottom Line: The Yankees' spring is already a mix of caution and optimism. Schlittler’s back issue is worth monitoring, but the team’s proactive approach is smart.
Cole’s accelerated recovery is a pleasant surprise, though the long game remains the priority. And Stanton?
His clean bill of health could be a quiet game-changer for a team with big October dreams.
Spring training may just be getting started, but the early signs suggest the Yankees are setting the stage for a season with serious potential.