The New York Yankees continue to lean into their reputation as one of MLB’s most polarizing teams, and pitcher Cam Schlittler is fully embracing that identity early in the 2026 season. After another strong outing, the young right-hander made it clear he enjoys being a target around the league.
“Everyone hates us,” Schlittler said, via Gary Phillips. “And that’s fine. We know what comes with wearing this jersey, and honestly, I like it. It means people are paying attention.”
That mindset reflects both the franchise’s history and Schlittler’s fast rise. The 25-year-old has opened the season in dominant fashion, reinforcing his place in the rotation while feeding off the pressure that comes with pitching in New York.
Schlittler backs up attitude with early dominance
Schlittler’s performance has matched his confidence. Through his first two starts of the 2026 season, he has yet to allow a run, building on the promise he showed during his rookie campaign.
Cam Schlittler #31 of the Yankees pitches during the first inning against the Red Sox. Al Bello/Getty Images
In his latest outing against the Seattle Mariners, Schlittler threw 6.1 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits while striking out seven. He also delivered a strong debut earlier in the season against the San Francisco Giants, finishing with 5.1 scoreless innings and eight strikeouts.
Those numbers add to an already impressive résumé. In 2025, Schlittler posted a 2.96 ERA across 14 starts and gained attention in the postseason, including an eight-inning, 12-strikeout performance against the Boston Red Sox.
Yankees’ identity continues to fuel clubhouse mentality
Schlittler’s comments highlight a broader mindset inside the Yankees’ clubhouse. The team understands its status as a perennial contender with a massive fan base naturally brings added scrutiny, and often, resentment from opposing teams and fans.
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Rather than avoiding that spotlight, players like Schlittler are using it as motivation. His early-season form suggests he’s not only comfortable with the pressure, but also thriving in it as he continues to establish himself as a key piece of the rotation.
