Shortly after it was learned that Dylan Cease of the Toronto Blue Jays was named the American League’s All-Star Game starting pitcher, Cam Schlittler of the New York Yankees confirmed that he will not pitch during the exhibition contest.
While speaking with reporters on Monday, Schlittler reflected on that decision.
Cam Schlittler, Yankees have “got bigger aspirations” than winning an All-Star Game
“I think the plan from a month ago or so was to throw, especially if I was able to start,” Schlittler said, per Alex Smith of SNY. “…I threw and I kind of sat there like it’s a long season, I’ve thrown a lot of innings so far, we’ve had a few injuries (to the rotation) already, and just didn’t want to risk the chance of feeling a little bit dragged after if I were to go out there on two days rest and try to throw 100 miles per hour. So, again, just trying to put myself and the team first. We’ve got bigger aspirations for the season.”
ESPN stats show that Schlittler entered the All-Star break leading the AL with a 2.05 ERA, a 0.94 WHIP and a 4.1 pitching wins above replacement. He is also fourth in all of MLB with 118.2 innings pitched. Over 20 starts, he went 9-5.
That said, the Yankees had been going through a bit of a summer swoon before they notched four consecutive wins to improve to 54-42 ahead of the break. While Schlittler is focused on what he’ll be able to offer the Yankees through this coming fall, it sounds like he will do all he can to enjoy Tuesday’s festivities.
Cam Schlittler will use All-Star Game as opportunity to learn from others
“I think it will probably sink in [Tuesday] during the game, or maybe just after, just realizing how fortunate I am to be in this position,” Schlittler continued. “…I think the biggest thing is just meeting all of the guys. I’ve only been up here for a year now, and the best players in the league are here, so it will be really good to talk to them, pick their brains, and see what I can learn and just enjoy it and watch the fun happen.”
According to Peter Sblendorio of the New York Daily News, Schlittler added that “at the end of the day, the team comes first.” Such comments may make him even more popular among Yankees fans who already view him as an ace.