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2026 Injury Report: Updates on Cole, Schlittler, Walcott

Originally posted on New Baseball Media | Last updated Feb 13, 2026 2:04 AM ET

The Yankees’ rotation was bitten by injuries last season. That helped pave the way for Cam Schlittler, who is heading into his second season, to carve out a role as a starter. Heading into 2026, the hard-throwing righty, expected to be a big part of the Yankees this year, is dealing with his own injury problems.

Schlittler slowed by back injury

Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler has been dealing with back inflammation so far this spring.

Schlittler stated that he’s dealing with minor inflammation in his mid-back. He noted that his goal is to “stay on top of that” over the next few days and work towards getting back on the mound next week.

“Again, not really concerned,” Schlittler stated regarding the back trouble.

Cole and Rodon could pitch this spring

Carlos Rodon and Gerrit Cole have both been working out in Florida, and manager Aaron Boone stated that the two have had no hiccups thus far.

Even though the two are expected to start the season on the injured list, Boone noted that the two could pitch in Grapefruit League action. The Grapefruit League runs through the end of March, giving the two a roughly six-week target to get into game action before the team heads up north.

Rodon underwent elbow surgery to remove loose bodies and shave a bone spur after the 2025 season. Cole, meanwhile, is working his back after UCL reconstruction surgery last spring.

Walcott done for 2026

The Rangers announced that Sebastian Walcott, arguably the top prospect in the team’s farm system, is likely done for 2026. Walcott will require UCL surgery for his right elbow, effectively ending his year before it even started.

Walcott, an explosive prospect with power, speed, and the ability to make consistent contact, was a non-roster invite by the Rangers for 2026 Spring Training.