TAMPA, Fla. -- Aaron Boone opened his first media availability of the spring by celebrating the health of his arriving pitchers and catchers, saying, “As far as I know, I think we’re in a good spot.”
Less than 24 hours later, the Yankees are managing an injury to one of their most promising hurlers.
Cam Schlittler is dealing with mid-back inflammation, and though the right-hander said he has “zero” concern about the issue, it will keep him from throwing off the mound for at least a few days.
“It’s early, so I just want to make sure I’m on top of it,” said Schlittler, who hopes to get back on the mound at some point next week.
Schlittler, 25, said he has been dealing with the issue since “a few weeks ago.” He also mentioned his lat muscle when describing the discomfort, which can suggest a more significant absence.
For the moment, the Yankees believe they are ahead of the issue. Boone said Schlittler underwent tests and will continue to throw on flat ground, as he did on Wednesday and Thursday.
“It’s really kind of minor,” Boone said. “He’s been getting some treatment and it hasn’t really slowed him.”
Boone said Schlittler was somewhat ahead of schedule, as he’s one of the few pitchers in camp to have already thrown a two-inning live batting practice session while working out at the club’s Minor League complex.
“He’s felt a little tweak here and there,” Boone said. “I don’t think it’ll slow him that much, but we just want to make sure we don’t turn it into something else.”
The Yankees are counting on Schlittler to be a big part of their season-opening rotation, with Carlos Rodón and Gerrit Cole rehabbing from injuries and not expected to be ready for Opening Day.
If healthy, Schlittler could follow Max Fried in the season-opening series against the Giants.
“I’m looking to throw a full season,” Schlittler said. “There’s really no concern and no worries when it comes to that stuff.”