Trap for Stroman or Yankees? Veteran-in-limbo leads off spring training rotation

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As the New York Yankees take the field for their first spring training game of 2025, the decision to start Marcus Stroman has sparked intrigue and debate. The veteran right-hander, who endured a tumultuous offseason filled with trade rumors and speculation about his role, now finds himself at the center of attention.

Why would the Yankees opt for a pitcher who has expressed frustration and uncertainty about his place in the rotation? Was it a strategic move, a peace offering, or simply an audition for potential trade suitors? The answer lies in a mix of baseball strategy, financial considerations, and clubhouse dynamics.

Stroman’s offseason uncertainty

Marcus Stroman’s journey to this moment has been anything but smooth. The Yankees signed him in January 2024 to a two-year, $37 million contract, fulfilling what many believed was his long-standing dream to play in the Bronx. But after an up-and-down 2024 campaign—where he posted a 4.31 ERA across 154 2/3 innings—his role within the Yankees’ deepened pitching staff became unclear.

His season started strong, with a 2.60 ERA in his first 12 starts, but a noticeable decline in the latter half led to his omission from the Yankees’ ALDS roster. Though he was later included in the ALCS, his struggles cast doubt on whether he would be part of the team’s long-term plans.

When the Yankees acquired ace left-hander Max Fried on a lucrative eight-year, $218 million deal in December 2024, the writing seemed to be on the wall. Stroman, suddenly on the outside looking in, was left to wonder where he fits in a rotation that already featured Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Nestor Cortes, and Clarke Schmidt. Trade rumors began swirling, fueled by the Yankees’ reported willingness to move him for bullpen depth or additional offensive reinforcements.

Adding to the tension, Stroman was conspicuously absent from the early days of Yankees camp. While he was not technically late—players had until February 22 to report—his delayed arrival raised eyebrows, leading manager Aaron Boone to describe the situation as “a little awkward.” Still, Boone maintained that Stroman was “within his rights” and assured reporters that his absence had no underlying drama.

When Stroman did arrive at camp, he was direct about his stance: “I’m a starter. I won’t pitch in the bullpen.” This declaration left little room for flexibility, putting the Yankees in a difficult spot. They had a surplus of starters, but Stroman was making it clear he had no intention of transitioning into a long-relief role.

Yankees’ tactic, not a coincidence

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, the Yankees handed Stroman the ball for the first start of spring training against the Tampa Bay Rays. Some viewed it as a goodwill gesture, an opportunity to reaffirm their confidence in the 33-year-old righty. Others saw it as a calculated move to showcase him to potential trade suitors.

Spring training openers may not carry much weight in the grand scheme of a season, but they do offer a chance to set a tone. Stroman’s competitive nature and experience make him an ideal candidate to take the mound first. Even amid trade speculation, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman made it clear that Stroman still had an important role to play:

“That’s vintage Stro. He’s a competitor. I agree with him—he is a starter. Let’s see how everything plays out.”

If the Yankees were trying to test Stroman’s commitment, the decision to start him in the opener would be a way to see how he responded. Would he embrace the challenge, or would the lingering trade rumors affect his performance?

Financial implications and trade possibilities

Beyond the competitive aspect, there’s a financial angle to consider. Stroman’s contract includes an $18 million player option for 2026 if he pitches at least 140 innings in 2025. If the Yankees are considering trading him, his innings count will be a factor for both New York and any potential suitors.

Teams that have shown interest in Stroman—including the San Diego Padres, St. Louis Cardinals, and Chicago Cubs—will likely monitor his spring performances. If he pitches well early, his trade value could rise, giving the Yankees more leverage in negotiations.

For now, the Yankees are keeping their options open. Boone has hinted that a six-man rotation isn’t currently planned, but the team is prepared to be flexible:

“Right now, the focus is getting him ready as a starter. As things come our way, we’ll address them.”

This statement leaves room for the Yankees to adjust their plans based on injuries, performance, and potential trade discussions.

Stroman’s mindset: A chip that can be made for the most

One thing that has never been in doubt is Stroman’s confidence. He thrives on proving doubters wrong, and the narrative surrounding his place on the Yankees may provide additional motivation.

He has always embraced an underdog mentality, famously stating in previous years:

“I love when people doubt me. That’s when I’m at my best.”

If there’s one scenario where Stroman could turn this situation to his advantage, it’s this one. He enters the spring with something to prove—not just to the Yankees but to the rest of the league.

Looking ahead: A defining moment for both Yankees, Stroman

The Yankees’ decision to start Stroman in the spring training opener does not guarantee his place in the rotation come Opening Day. But it does offer a glimpse into the team’s thinking. They recognize his talent and experience, even if his long-term fit remains uncertain.

If Stroman delivers strong outings in spring, he could force the Yankees to reconsider their plans. He might also attract the interest of a team willing to trade for a proven starter. Conversely, if he struggles, his market value could take a hit, making it harder for the Yankees to move him.

Regardless of the outcome, this storyline will be one to watch. The Yankees have made their choice for the spring training opener, but what happens next is still unwritten.

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