For the past six years, the New York Yankees have had their ace. Since being acquired in 2020 during free agency, Gerrit Cole has led New York’s rotation, being their top starting pitcher. As a six time all-star and former Cy Young winner, Cole has been efficient in his role. However, it may be time to pass the torch.

Since being called up midway through the 2025 season, Cam Schlittler has maintained an impressive 1.50 ERA, the second lowest by a Yankee in a pitcher’s first 12 starts in a season since 1913. Despite throwing his fastball more than 90% of the time, the starting pitcher remains unhittable.

The seventh round pick has exceeded all expectations.Due to his dominant performance, the sophomore pitcher is a frontrunner for the American League Cy Young Award and is in the conversation for American League MVP.

 Due to Max Fried’s injury and Gerrit Cole’s ongoing rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery, Schlittler has earned the current ace role. Even when Fried returns healthy and Cole returns to the mound more frequently, this title will most likely remain his, and possibly for years to come.

Cam Schlittler has more than proven that he has the ability to lead the Yankees pitching rotation for the next era of New York baseball.