Why Yankees are considering not starting Cam Schlittler in Game 1 of Wild Card Series

The New York Yankees are considering alternatives to starting ace Cam Schlittler in Game 1 of the American League Wild Card Series. Although Schlittler is viewed internally as their top option in a vacuum, team officials are cautious about managing his workload. Entering his final regular-season outing against the Tampa Bay Rays, Schlittler has thrown a career-high 190 2/3 innings, and pitching Tuesday would mark his fourth straight start on regular rest.

Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake noted the club is also evaluating Max Fried and Gerrit Cole to start Game 1. Starting either pitcher would provide extra rest for Schlittler and offer strategic flexibility for potential ALDS matchups if New York advances.