The New York Yankees’ postseason run may have ended earlier than fans hoped, but it wasn’t without its bright spots — and Cam Schlittler’s breakout was among the biggest.
The young right-hander’s October dominance was something special. In fact, over the past decade, only ten other pitchers have thrown at least 14 total innings in back-to-back postseason starts — a list that includes legends like Clayton Kershaw, Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, Matt Harvey, and Madison Bumgarner.
In an era defined by short leashes and heavy bullpen usage, Schlittler’s ability to go deep into games signaled something rare: trust. The Yankees’ coaching staff clearly felt confident with him on the mound, and the rookie rewarded them with poise, command, and stamina beyond his years. His emergence provides one of the few silver linings to an otherwise disappointing October.
Aaron Judge: Still Elite, But How Long?
Of course, Aaron Judge delivered another sensational postseason, reminding everyone why he wears the captain’s “C.” His production was elite, his leadership steady. Yet the uncomfortable question lingers: how much longer can Judge sustain this historic level?
Next season marks Judge’s 10th full campaign in the majors, and while he shows zero signs of decline, baseball’s history books are merciless — even for greats. Father Time is undefeated, and if Judge’s production dips even slightly, the Yankees’ championship pursuit only grows more complicated.
To make matters trickier, Judge played much of 2025 through an elbow injury that now could require offseason surgery. His recovery — and how it affects his power and throwing arm — will be one of the Yankees’ most critical storylines heading into 2026.
More Questions Than Answers
The Yankees’ offseason to-do list is long. Beyond Judge’s elbow, there’s the lineup’s inability to consistently put the ball in play in October, the developmental trajectory of Anthony Volpe, the uncertain future of Cody Bellinger, and what exactly the plan is for first base in 2026.
Curiously missing from some discussions? The bullpen — a glaring weakness for much of 2025. Perhaps it’s too painful a topic, or maybe there’s simply too much else to fix first.
The Bottom Line
For all their stars and payroll muscle, the Yankees remain a team searching for answers. Cam Schlittler’s emergence hints at a brighter future on the mound, but unless the front office solves its offensive inconsistencies — and surrounds Judge with more support — that elusive World Series title will remain out of reach.
