The New York Yankees may no longer view Marcus Stroman as part of their long-term plans. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the 33-year-old right-hander, who is entering the final year of his two-year, $37 million contract, might not have a future with the team. The deal includes a player option worth $18 million for 2025, but only if Stroman throws 140 innings in the upcoming season. Despite his solid first half of the 2024 season, where he posted a 3.51 ERA and went 7-4, Stroman struggled in the second half, finishing with a 5.98 ERA and a 3-5 record. His overall performance in 2024, with a 4.31 ERA and a 1.468 WHIP, was subpar, and he was left off the Yankees’ postseason roster, missing out on contributing to their World Series run.
Given the Yankees’ current pitching rotation, which includes ace Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Luis Gil, Stroman’s role with the team is unclear. New York may be inclined to trade Stroman, especially after his recent slump. They could look to promote younger pitchers like Cody Poteet to fill the void. While it’s uncertain what Stroman could bring in a trade, the Yankees are in need of bullpen reinforcements and potential upgrades at first base. Stroman could either be a centerpiece in a trade to acquire players for these positions or be included as part of a package to strengthen the team in other areas.
