Marcus Stroman delays Spring Training arrival as Yankees rotation takes shape

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Yankees right-hander Marcus Stroman, who has been at the center of trade speculation throughout the offseason, has been absent from spring training workouts for the past two days.

Yankees continue spring workouts without Marcus Stroman

Pitchers and catchers officially reported to camp two days ago, but Stroman has yet to take the field. According to SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino, the veteran pitcher has already completed his spring training physical and is simply taking “a couple of extra days.” Martino emphasized that Stroman is not holding out and is expected to join camp soon, with his arrival anticipated in the coming days.

Shortly after the news surfaced, Aaron Boone admitted he wasn’t surprised by Marcus Stroman’s absence from the first few workouts. He assured that Stroman remains in top shape, both mentally and physically, and that the CBA allows for his absence: “I knew he might miss the first couple of days, but nothing has changed in how I feel about where he’s at mentally and physically.”

Stroman, 33, signed a two-year deal with the Yankees last offseason, which includes a vesting option for 2026. However, his role with the team remains uncertain. With Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt returning to the rotation and newly acquired Max Fried set to take a prominent spot, Stroman appears to be the odd man out. Unless an injury opens a spot in the rotation, he is likely destined for a bullpen role or a trade to another team.

SNY also noted that Stroman’s ability to reach 140 innings this season, a requirement for his 2026 contract option to vest, could be hindered if he is not part of the starting rotation.

Stroman’s first season in the Bronx was a mixed bag. He posted a 4.31 ERA (4.62 FIP) with a 1.46 WHIP, striking out 113 batters over 154.2 innings in 30 appearances (29 starts). However, despite being on the Yankees’ ALCS roster, he did not pitch during their postseason run and was left off the rosters for both the ALDS and the World Series.

With uncertainty surrounding his role and trade speculation continuing to swirl, Stroman’s absence from workouts only adds to the questions about his future in pinstripes.

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