Report: Marcus Stroman trade feels imminent as Yankees grapple with payroll limits

Follow Us

As the MLB offseason continues, the New York Yankees are making moves to reshape their roster. Reports confirm they are not pursuing Pete Alonso, despite earlier speculation, and are instead focusing on trading Marcus Stroman to create flexibility for infield upgrades.

Yankees dismiss Pete Alonso links

According to CBS, while Pete Alonso’s name has been linked to the Yankees, sources close to the team indicate they have no active interest in the Mets’ slugger. Alonso recently proposed a three-year deal with opt-outs to the Mets but has garnered limited attention elsewhere.

Marcus Stroman trade in play

Jon Heyman reports that the Yankees are willing to cover part of Marcus Stroman’s $18 million salary for 2025 to facilitate a trade. The 33-year-old pitcher’s contract also includes an $18 million player option for 2026, which vests automatically if he reaches 140 innings next season.

Stroman became expendable following the Yankees’ acquisition of Max Fried, adding to a rotation that already includes Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Clarke Schmidt, and AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil. With Stroman now surplus to their pitching needs, the Yankees are exploring trade options to free up payroll and address other roster priorities.

The Yankees’ willingness to pay down part of Stroman’s salary reflects their urgency to move him. With a projected payroll of $303 million, the team faces steep luxury tax penalties. Offloading Stroman’s contract could reduce their financial obligations and free up resources to pursue infield upgrades.

The Yankees are exploring potential trades to address their infield needs, with targets including Luis Arraez, Brendan Rodgers, and Jeimer Candelario. If no deals materialize, the team may rely on internal options like DJ LeMahieu and Oswaldo Cabrera for starting roles.

The Yankees have ruled out any pursuit of Pete Alonso as they focus on addressing their roster priorities. Trading Marcus Stroman remains a key goal, enabling the team to strengthen its infield while managing payroll challenges. With Spring Training on the horizon, the Yankees are positioning themselves to remain competitive in the upcoming season.

What do you think? Leave your comment below.

Follow Us