A Spring Training Surprise
New York Yankees pitcher Marcus Stroman raised a few eyebrows when he missed the team’s first two days of spring training workouts in Tampa. However, the workouts were not mandatory, and players are only required to report to camp on February 22. Manager Aaron Boone was aware that the right-hander might skip them, which explains the lack of immediate concern. Stroman, known for his fiery personality and competitive spirit, arrived at the Yankees’ facility on Friday, bringing a clear message with him. He is unequivocally a starting pitcher and has no intention of pitching out of the bullpen. "I’m a starter," Stroman told reporters, a sentiment he repeated several times. "I won’t pitch in the bullpen."
The Competitive Rotation
Stroman’s stance might seem straightforward, but it comes at a time when the Yankees are flush with starting pitching talent. The projected five-man rotation includes ace Gerrit Cole, free agent addition Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, the 2024 American League Rookie of the Year Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt. This leaves Stroman, a veteran of 11 seasons, on the outside looking in. Manager Boone acknowledged the depth but hinted that the team might not go with a six-man rotation, though he didn’t rule it out entirely. "Never say never," Boone said, explaining that while he doesn’t see it happening, "it’s a long way away." The reality of a 162-game season means that other pitchers will inevitably start games, but Stroman’s determination to be a starter is clear.
Trade Rumors and Financial Constraints
Given the Yankees’ surplus of starting pitchers, it’s no surprise that the team explored trading Stroman during the offseason. However, they found no takers for his $18.3 million salary for 2025. Stroman also has a vesting option at the same salary for 2026 if he pitches 140 innings this season. If he’s not in the starting rotation, it’s unlikely he’ll reach that total. The financial burden and the lack of interest from other teams have left Stroman in a bit of a limbo, but he is determined to prepare as if he will be a starter.
Personal Challenges and Professional Determination
Beyond the professional challenges, Stroman has faced personal adversity as well. He recently lost his home in Malibu during the January wildfires in Southern California, adding a layer of difficulty to his preparation for the season. Despite this setback, Stroman remains focused and dedicated to his craft. He is preparing for a starter’s workload during spring training, emphasizing that he has no issue with team management and enjoys a positive relationship with his teammates. "Everyone in that clubhouse, I have nothing but love for and they all know that," Stroman said. "We all have a great relationship in there, from the staff and the employees all the way down. You can freely go ask anybody. I love everybody in that clubhouse. This is part of the business. It has nothing to do with my love for anybody in there."
A Season of Uncertainty
Stroman’s 2022 season with the Yankees saw him make 30 appearances (29 starts), finishing with a 10-9 record and a 4.31 ERA. He struck out 113 batters in 154 2/3 innings, but his rate of 6.6 strikeouts per nine innings was the second-lowest of his career. While he did not pitch during the postseason run to the World Series, he was on the playoff roster. The upcoming season brings a mix of uncertainty and opportunity for Stroman. With the Yankees having six weeks of spring training to sort out their roster, the possibility of a trade remains. Stroman, however, is committed to preparing as if he will be a starting pitcher, regardless of the team’s plans.
Looking Forward
Stroman’s determination and professionalism, despite the personal and professional challenges he faces, highlight the resilience and strength of character that have defined his career. As the Yankees navigate the complexities of their pitching staff, Stroman’s message is clear: he is a starter, and he will do everything in his power to prove it. The coming weeks and months will reveal how the Yankees’ starting rotation will shape up, but for now, Stroman is focused on his preparation and his love for the game. His dedication and positive attitude towards his teammates and the organization bode well for the team’s success, both on and off the field.
