Stroman ‘open to doing whatever’ Yankees want as first WS opportunity in sight

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The New York Yankees have recently shifted Marcus Stroman, their 33-year-old right-handed starter, to a bullpen role, a move the pitcher has embraced with optimism. He made his debut as a reliever for the Yankees on Tuesday, playing a key role in their 11-2 win against the Seattle Mariners on the road. Stroman delivered an impressive performance, surrendering just one run over three innings while striking out three.

Going a step ahead, the pitcher has committed fully to his team and is ready for any role the Yankees assign him in their World Series quest. “I know how much I’ve contributed to this team to get to this point, and I’m open to doing whatever they need me to do to help continue to contribute,” Stroman said in an interview with Brandon Kuty of The Athletic.

He underscored his growth into maturity and a team-oriented outlook. Reflecting on his evolution, he noted how age has helped him set aside his ego, a sharp contrast to his earlier mindset. Acknowledging his key role in the team’s success, Stroman emphasized his readiness to adjust to whatever position is needed to keep contributing to the Yankees’ goals.

“I have no ego nowadays, man,” he said. “I’m not this younger guy. I’m not 23-year-old me.”

Meanwhile, manager Aaron Boone has commended Stroman for his professionalism following the decision to move him to the bullpen. As reported by Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, Boone lauded Stroman’s positive attitude and leadership both on and off the field, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s success.

“Stro has been so good for us and so good in the room,” the manager quoted syaing. “He’s all about that team in there and all about the guys in there. Basically, his message to me is, ‘Whatever you need, and I’ll be ready to go.’ I think he just wants to be part of a winner.

On his part, the pitcher returned the favor with an assurance that he was willing to step into any role necessary, demonstrating his team-first mindset.

Stroman’s season has been marked by solid numbers, boasting a 10-8 record, a 4.07 ERA, and 109 strikeouts over 28 starts and 148.1 innings. However, with Clarke Schmidt returning to the Yankees’ rotation, the team found itself with an abundance of healthy starters. Now with six reliable options—Stroman, Schmidt, Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodon, and Nestor Cortes—the Yankees opted to transition Stroman to a bullpen role, despite his steady performance throughout the year.

Stroman eyes first World Series opportunity

Throughout his decade in the majors, which includes time with the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and now the Yankees, Stroman has built a commendable career. His overall record stands at 87-84, with a 3.69 ERA, a 1.27 WHIP, a 114 ERA+, and a 7.4 K/9 rate. Despite his strong track record as a starter, the Yankees’ pitching depth ultimately necessitated his transition to the bullpen.

With the Yankees securing their playoff berth, Marcus Stroman remains a vital component of their pitching staff. The team has clinched a postseason spot and holds a solid four-game lead over the Baltimore Orioles in the American League East, with just eight regular-season games left. The Yankees are determined to end their AL pennant and World Series title drought, which stretches back to 2009.

For Stroman, this postseason run offers a chance to make his long-awaited World Series debut. Addressing the shift to the bullpen, the Yankees pitcher maintained a positive outlook, saying he accepted the change without frustration. Stroman reflected on his successful ten-year career as a starter and expressed his respect for the Yankees’ current rotation.

“I’m not coming in (with) slumping shoulders or upset at all by this,” he said. I’ve been doing this for 10 years as a starter at a very high level. I realize how incredible our starters are.”

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