Yankees Pitcher Cam Schlittler Aims to Revamp His Arsenal This Offseason
The New York Yankees are not just focused on external acquisitions this offseason; their current roster is also hard at work, refining its skills and enhancing the team’s pitching depth. Among those players is Cam Schlittler, who recently shared his ambitious goals for the winter.
A New Approach to Pitch Development
In a recent conversation, Schlittler revealed his plans to expand his repertoire by developing either a splitter—playfully dubbed the “Cam Splittler”—or a changeup to complement his already impressive arsenal. The right-hander, known for his high-velocity offerings, primarily leaned on a blistering 98-mph four-seam fastball, which he utilized 55% of the time last season. Alongside that, he employed a cutter (21%) and a curveball (15%).
In preparation for the upcoming season, Schlittler has been training diligently at Northeastern University, sharing living quarters with Yankees farmhand Thomas Balboni Jr. and Padres prospect Eric Yost. Their collective training sessions began a few weeks ago, allowing Schlittler to sharpen his skills and focus on pitch development.
Navigating the Challenges of Pitch Variation
While Schlittler is enthusiastic about adding a new pitch, he remains in the decision-making process regarding whether to pursue the changeup or the splitter. Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake has indicated that the changeup may be the more practical choice. Last spring, Schlittler faced challenges with wrist pronation while experimenting with the splitter, which may have influenced this new direction.
A Bright Future Ahead
With a diverse pitching arsenal that also includes a sinker and slider, Schlittler is poised to take significant strides this offseason. By refining his skills and introducing a new pitch, he aims to enhance his effectiveness on the mound and contribute to the Yankees’ quest for success in the coming season. As the winter unfolds, all eyes will be on Schlittler to see how his hard work and dedication translate into performance come spring training.
