The Yankees had a busy Sunday, splitting their doubleheader with a 4–3 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates while securing a 7–5 win against the Tampa Bay Rays with their split-squad team. It was a mixed bag of results, featuring some solid pitching, a few offensive standouts, and ongoing concerns about certain struggling players.
Cam Schlittler Impresses in the Start
Against the Pirates, Cam Schlittler took the mound and delivered a strong performance. The right-hander gave up just one earned run over 4.2 innings while striking out four batters. His command was sharp, and he kept the Yankees in the game before turning things over to the bullpen.
Unfortunately, left-hander Rob Zastryzny couldn’t hold the lead late, surrendering two earned runs in the ninth inning to hand Pittsburgh the win. It was a frustrating way to lose, especially after a well-pitched game from the starters and middle relievers.
Austin Wells and Cody Bellinger Stay Hot
The Yankees’ offense managed eight hits but also struck out 12 times, showing some inconsistency at the plate. Austin Wells continued his hot stretch, picking up a hit and a walk over three at-bats. The young catcher has been seeing the ball well, making consistent contact and getting on base at a solid clip.
Cody Bellinger added to his red-hot spring, collecting two hits and an RBI in four at-bats. He doubled to right field in the first inning, driving in Wells to give the Yankees an early lead. Bellinger’s bat has been locked in, and if this continues into the regular season, he could be a game-changer in the middle of the lineup.
Paul Goldschmidt and Dom Smith Provide Support
Paul Goldschmidt put together a productive afternoon, working two walks and picking up a hit. His patient approach has been on display this spring, and he’s been a steady presence in the Yankees’ lineup.
Dom Smith continued his strong push for a roster spot, launching a solo home run and adding another hit in the loss. He’s hitting the ball hard and making his case as a potential depth piece who can provide some pop off the bench.
Oswald Peraza Running Out of Time
One of the more concerning trends from this game was Oswald Peraza’s continued struggles at the plate. He struck out twice over three at-bats and is now slashing .182/.270/.212 this spring.
Peraza was given another opportunity to prove himself as a legitimate starting option at third base, but once again, he has failed to capitalize. With his numbers trending in the wrong direction, the Yankees may have no choice but to roll with Oswaldo Cabrera at third for the foreseeable future.
Yankees Look to Shake Off Late Inning Collapse
Despite the frustrating loss, the Yankees had some bright spots to take away, particularly from their starters and key offensive contributors. The real concern continues to be their third base situation, where Peraza’s struggles are making the decision easier for Aaron Boone and his staff.
With Opening Day around the corner, the Yankees will need to tighten things up, especially in the bullpen, where late-inning struggles like Sunday’s could become a lingering issue.