NEW YORK — The New York Yankees are headed to the American League Division Series after a commanding shutout win over the Boston Red Sox, led by rookie pitcher Cam Schlitler in a performance already etched into postseason history.
Schlitler delivered a masterclass under pressure, striking out 12 batters with no walks over a complete-game shutout. The rookie, who hails from the Boston area, became the first player in postseason history to log 12 strikeouts, no walks, and a shutout in a winner-take-all game. His composure on the mound was undeniable, and his fastball — clocking up to 101 mph — left Red Sox hitters guessing.
“He didn’t care who was in the box. He attacked,” said ESPN analyst Eduardo Pérez. “Fastball command, movement, and poise — it was all there.”
Schlitler’s dominance wasn’t just velocity. He mixed his cutter, two-seamer, and an occasional curveball to disrupt timing. He threw first-pitch strikes to 22 of 29 batters, keeping Boston behind in the count all night.
Clean play
The Yankees’ defense supported Schlitler with clean play, avoiding the costly mistakes that plagued the Red Sox. Analysts Carl Ravich and Pérez emphasized that composure in the first inning was critical — and Schlitler passed that test with authority.
With the win, the Yankees will now face the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre — a place that’s given them fits this season. But if New York’s pitching holds up, and if the lineup strings together hits like it did in the fourth inning against Boston, they’re a threat. Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge don’t need to carry the offense alone. Singles, doubles, and situational awareness gave the Yankees their edge — not just the long ball.
“We’re paying attention to detail,” said Jazz Chisholm after the game. “Doing the small things.”
Need a repeat
Luis Gil is expected to start Game 1 against Kevin Gausman in Toronto. The Yankees will need a repeat of what worked — sharp pitching, consistent contact, and mistake-free defense — if they want to push through to the ALCS.
“We are battle-tested. We are badass,” said one team member postgame. The energy is undeniable, and the mission is clear.
Series Snapshot:
- Yankees vs. Blue Jays – ALDS begins tomorrow
- Cam Schlitler: 9 IP, 12 K, 0 BB, 0 ER
- Yankees offense: A multi-hit rally in the 4th inning sparked the win
- Next starter: Luis Gil vs. Kevin Gausman
With momentum and swagger, the Yankees are surging — and they’re not looking back.
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Born in Harrisburg, Pa., Houghton was raised in northern Pennsylvania. His father was a sports editor and reporter, so he was immersed in sports as a child. Houghton graduated from Pace University in 2000 with a journalism and digital major and a studio art minor.
