- The New York Yankees are reportedly considering a trade of starting pitcher Marcus Stroman ahead of Opening Day, driven by financial and strategic factors. Stroman’s contract guarantees $18 million for 2025, with a conditional $18 million in 2026 if he reaches 140 innings pitched this season. After being left off the Yankees’ World Series roster last year and the recent signing of Max Fried, Stroman now falls to sixth in the team’s rotation pecking order, increasing his expendability.
The Atlanta Braves, grappling with a weakened pitching staff after losing Fried and Charlie Morton, could benefit from acquiring Stroman. Their rotation took another hit when free-agent target Jack Flaherty opted for a two-year deal with the Detroit Tigers, leaving Atlanta scrambling for alternatives. Stroman’s durability and experience could help fill the gap left by Morton, offering stability as the Braves address their depleted roster. A potential trade framework might involve Atlanta sending 22-year-old pitching prospect Cade Kuehler—a promising but injury-recovering arm currently overshadowed in their system—to New York, along with cash to offset half of Stroman’s remaining salary.
Kuehler, rehabilitating from Tommy John surgery, showcased a powerful fastball and effective secondary pitches prior to his injury. If the Yankees view him as a viable post-surgery rebound candidate, this deal could align with their long-term plans. Notably, Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos, who drafted Stroman during his time with the Toronto Blue Jays, might now facilitate a reunion in Atlanta. While Stroman’s role in New York has diminished, his veteran presence could bolster the Braves’ rotation, presenting a mutually beneficial scenario as both teams finalize their 2024 strategies.
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