NEW YORK – If the Yankees have learned one thing about Cam Schlittler as he continues to impress, it might be this: The bigger the stage, the more likely he is to dominate.
The young right-hander dazzled in his introduction to the Subway Series, striking out nine over 6 2/3 innings as the Yankees renewed their Interleague rivalry with a 5-2 win over the Mets on Friday evening at Citi Field.
Juan Soto connected for an opposite-field home run in the seventh inning, the only blemish against Schlittler, who limited the Mets to two hits and two walks. Schlittler threw a season-high 106 pitches (71 for strikes), departing with the Yankees leading, 4-1.
The prospect of having each pitch broadcast on large screens overlooking Times Square was no issue for Schlittler. He has swiftly authored a reputation for savoring games with brighter spotlights, highlighted by his performance in Game 3 of last year’s American League Wild Card Series against the Red Sox.
Not only did he deliver on the mound, but Schlittler made the highlight reels in the field, contributing an impressive defensive play on a slow roller up the third-base line that took a hit away from Mark Vientos in the fourth inning, tumbling to the turf after throwing a strike to first base.
For a third consecutive start, Schlittler was also hit by a comebacker. Luis Torrens gave the Yankees’ dugout a scare after clipping Schlittler in the shoe with a third-inning knock that kicked to shortstop Anthony Volpe, who tossed on to first base for the out.