The Yankees appeared more energized than the Mets, who seemed to be playing for pride alone.

Alternatively, motivation may have been secondary, as Schlittler’s raw power overwhelmed the Mets’ late-season vigor.

Regardless of motivation, the Yankees demonstrated why they will contend in larger series this season, while this September Subway Series represented the Mets’ final meaningful weekend.

Schlittler dominated as the offense contributed only two decisive hits in a 2-0 shutout before a crowd of 45,508 at Yankee Stadium. Though not expected to secure a playoff berth, the Yankees captured a series win over their hot, seemingly inconsequential rivals.

The Yankees sit at 86-63, trailing the Rays by four games, while the Mets fell to 69-80, sliding to 22-14 after a trade deadline that dismantled much of their roster.

Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler (31) walks to the dugout with catcher Austin Wells (28) after getting hit by a line drive by Mets third baseman Bo Bichette (19) to end the sixth inning on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Yankee Stadium. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Since August 3, the Mets have focused on development rather than results, turning Sunday’s matchup against the Cy Young contender into a developmental opportunity.

“Anytime you face the best, you should smile and enjoy the challenge,” Mets interim manager Andy Green said, though Schlittler would have used his heat to erase any smiles.

The young right-hander was the day’s top pitcher, dominating the Mets’ offense over six scoreless, one-hit innings that appeared routine until the late‑inning tension.

Yankees designated hitter Ben Rice hits a solo home run during the first inning on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Yankee Stadium. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Bo Bichette, Schlittler’s final batter of the day, launched a 111.5‑mph comebacker off his leg, recalling the drama of Spencer Jones versus Clay Holmes.

The pitcher hopped on his other leg, the only sign of discomfort, before exiting the mound as catcher Austin Wells embraced him; Wells fielded the ricochet and threw out Bichette for the final out of the sixth inning.

New York Mets center fielder A.J. Ewing reacts after flying out to end the seventh inning against the Yankees at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post

Elsewhere, Schlittler recorded eight strikeouts and lowered his ERA to 1.95, delivering more damage than he absorbed.

The usual trio — Brent Headrick, Paul Blackburn and David Bednar, the latter striking out a heavily booed Juan Soto in the ninth — secured the win as the Mets offered little threat, managing only two at-bats with a runner that reached second base, while the Yankees needed just two swings to capitalize.

Facing Christian Scott, who pitched six innings, allowed two runs, recorded seven strikeouts and two walks, the Yankees managed only three hits, two of which were home runs by Ben Rice and Austin Wells.

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