Cam Schlittler Responds To Haters With 12-K Performance In Yankees Game 3 Win

New York Yankees right-handed pitcher Cam Schlittler received online backlash prior to the team’s AL Wild Card round against the Boston Red Sox, which ultimately fueled him on the mound on Thursday night.

The 24-year-old, who grew up about 18 miles south of Boston, said some of the messages his family received “crossed the line.”

But it seemed to motivate the rookie pitcher, who started his first postseason game in a win-or-go-home Game 3 against the Red Sox. His response? A no-run, 12-strikeout game which helped the Yankees win 4-0 and advance to the ALDS, eliminating their rivals in the process.

“People from Boston had a lot to say before the game,” Schlittler said in his postgame interview. “For me, just being a silent killer, being able to go out there and shut them down.

“I’m from Boston. I didn’t like some of the things they were saying today. I was just making sure I was going out there and extra locked in.”

While Schlittler kept the Red Sox off the board, the Yankees’ offense came alive in the fourth inning with four runs scored to break the deadlock. The hosts held onto their advantage and secured the victory despite losing Game 1 earlier in the week.

Thursday’s performance by Schlittler also broke a Yankees record for most strikeouts in a playoff debut, surpassing Red Ruffing in 1932 and Dave Righetti in 1981.

The Yankees will return to the field on Saturday against the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 1 of the ALDS. But for now, Schlittler will soak in his decisive performance from Thursday.

“At the end of the day, there’s not much [Red Sox fans] can say now.”