New York Yankees Nab Humane Bug Catchers from PETA After Cam Schlittler’s Meltdown Over Spider

For Immediate Release:
March 17, 2026

Contact:
Moira Colley 202-483-7382

Following reports that New York Yankees’ pitcher Cam Schlittler was so bugged out after finding a spider in his locker ahead of Sunday’s game that he called security to remove the eight-legged visitor, PETA is rushing the team humane bug catchers to ensure that any future arachnid guests can be escorted outside safely and compassionately.

“Spiders have a lot more to fear from us than we do from them, so the least we can do is show them a little kindness and consideration,” says PETA Founder Ingrid Newkirk. “PETA’s humane bug catcher makes relocating spiders a snap—no squishing, screaming, or security detail required—and we hope this useful device brings the Yankees’ pitcher some relief.” 

PETA notes that spiders—who are essential members of their ecosystem, communicate in interesting ways, and spin some of nature’s most astonishing architecture—almost never bite humans, and even when they do, the vast majority pose no health risk. To gently encourage spiders in the home to move along, PETA recommends humane deterrents, such as peppermint oil. More tips for bug-proofing homes are available here.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow PETA on X, Facebook, or Instagram.