Marcus Stroman is singing a different song. The veteran pitcher who once declared himself strictly a starter now shows flexibility. His evolving stance comes as he works back toward the New York Yankees roster.
Following a challenging rehab appearance with Double-A Somerset Patriots, Stroman revealed his changing mindset. The same hurler who firmly stated “I’m a starter” during spring camp now welcomes any role the Yankees require.
“I’m open to everything,” Stroman declared after Somerset’s 4-3 defeat to Portland Sea Dogs.
Complete U-turn by Stroman
The transformation marks a dramatic departure from February’s events. Stroman’s frustration boiled over when his rotation spot seemed uncertain. He temporarily abandoned spring training after voicing concerns about being excluded from starting plans.
His second chance didn’t produce the desired results. Stroman struggled mightily through three April outings. He compiled an 11.57 ERA without recording a victory. Physical discomfort became apparent during each appearance.
The Yankees eventually placed him on injured reserve with left knee inflammation by mid-April. The issue traces back to ACL surgery nearly ten years ago.
Rehab performance shows promise
Wednesday’s minor league start delivered encouraging signs. Stroman completed 3.1 innings on 46 pitches. He surrendered one run on a single hit while walking two and fanning four batters.
The performance wasn’t spectacular, but pain-free execution represented the key victory for both the pitcher and the organization.
“Just to be at a point where it’s just free and easy and not really thinking about my knee or body or mechanics or anything, it felt really good to be back,” Stroman explained.
His pitch count must reach 70-75 throws before activation becomes possible. That timeline requires at least two additional rehab assignments.
Role remains undefined
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Stroman acknowledged the Yankees hadn’t specified his future usage. Despite the uncertainty, the 33-year-old projects newfound adaptability.
“Oh, it hasn’t gone that far, to be honest with you,” Stroman noted. “This was just ‘check this box’ to make sure I feel good.”
When pressed about potential bullpen duties, he avoided definitive answers. “I’m not even that far yet, but I could be open to it,” he said. “I’m just trying to make sure my body and my knee, my arm and my mechanics are right.”
His previous inflexibility regarding non-starting roles has vanished. The shift suggests one clear motivation — remaining in pinstripes matters most.
Survival mode activated
Additional context adds urgency to Stroman’s situation. He represents a prime trade candidate before July 31’s deadline. His expiring contract eliminates long-term commitment concerns for potential suitors.
Without rotation guarantees, the Yankees may package him for bullpen reinforcements or infield upgrades. Stroman recognizes these realities.
His cooperative tone might signal value reassertion — not just to New York, but across baseball. Multi-inning relievers with playoff experience carry premium worth in today’s postseason format.
Stroman understands what’s at stake. He admitted his knee hasn’t achieved full health while learning management techniques.
“I’ve gotten it to the point where I’m sure it will be sore, but I know how to manage it next day now with the trainers and coaches,” he said. “I’m in a way more confident position with my knee now than it was.”
Relief work could provide path forward
The Yankees’ evolving pitching landscape may force Stroman into hybrid duties. Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and Clarke Schmidt anchor the current rotation. Luis Gil’s return timeline is approaching rapidly.
Meanwhile, bullpen inconsistency and overwork create obvious organizational needs. Stroman’s experience and pitch repertoire suit long-relief or opener responsibilities — assuming velocity and command return through continued rehabilitation.
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Yankees weigh options
The Yankees enter June 12 with baseball’s best 41-25 record and AL East leadership. Postseason expectations demand careful roster construction balancing health, performance, and October preparation.
Stroman’s public flexibility sends an unmistakable message. He no longer ties his future to starting pitcher identification. His appeal couldn’t be clearer: “Keep me in your plans.”
If those plans include bullpen work? He’ll accept it.
Stroman’s next minor league start should occur within five days. His pitch count will gradually expand as the Yankees evaluate both results and physical response patterns.
With trade deadline pressure mounting, his next two outings carry enormous significance. These appearances won’t just determine his role — they’ll decide whether he remains in the Bronx beyond July.
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