Marcus Stroman Yet to Join Yankees Workouts as Future Remains Clouded
TAMPA, FL – With spring training underway, New York Yankees pitcher Marcus Stroman has reported to the team’s facility but is yet to participate in any on-field workouts, raising questions about his role and future with the club.
Stroman Present but Sidelined
The 33-year-old right-hander arrived in Tampa and completed his physical, but he opted out of workouts on both Wednesday and Thursday. While this absence has sparked speculation, manager Aaron Boone stressed that the situation isn’t entirely unexpected, given conversations he had with Stroman earlier in the week.
“I’m not going to speak for him. You can ask him for the reasons,” Boone said. “I want him here, but we also have to respect the rules that are set up.”
Under Major League Baseball’s guidelines, players have until February 22 – the mandatory report date – to begin official training activities, meaning Stroman is not violating any team policy.
Trade Rumors Fuel Speculation
Stroman’s delayed involvement comes amid reports earlier this offseason that the Yankees were exploring potential trade options involving him.
Though Boone downplayed concerns, his comments hinted at some unease:
“Of course, I want him here, and I’m nudging him to get here. But we also have to respect that he has the right to take his time.”
Stroman’s Role in a Crowded Rotation
After joining the Yankees ahead of the 2024 season, Stroman made 29 starts (30 appearances), finishing 10-9 with a 4.31 ERA across 154.2 innings. He was not used in the playoffs, when the Yankees made a deep run to the World Series, ultimately falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games.
The Yankees have since reshaped their rotation, signing star lefty Max Fried to pair with ace Gerrit Cole at the top of the rotation. They traded Nestor Cortes to the Brewers to acquire closer Devin Williams, leaving Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, and AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil rounding out the projected five-man rotation.
This leaves Stroman’s spot somewhat uncertain, though Boone recently told NJ.com that Stroman could be one of the team’s most valuable pitchers this season, potentially filling a sixth starter or swingman role.
Yankees Confident in Stroman’s Professionalism
Despite the current awkwardness, Boone expressed faith in Stroman’s character and work ethic:
“He’s a prideful player, and he’s had a great career. He’ll be ready.”
Stroman enters his 12th MLB season with a career record of 87-85, a 3.72 ERA, and 1,204 strikeouts over 261 games with the Blue Jays, Mets, Cubs, and Yankees.
With the clock ticking toward February 22, all eyes will remain on Stroman’s status, as the Yankees look to finalize their pitching plans for the 2025 season.
