NEW YORK — Marcus Stroman‘s comeback couldn’t have been scripted better. The New York Yankees right-hander dominated the Athletics for five innings Sunday, silencing critics and providing hope for a rotation that desperately needed reinforcement and a survival kit for himself.
Stroman allowed just one run on three hits in his first appearance since April 11. The performance marked a dramatic turnaround from his early-season struggles and delivered exactly what the Yankees needed in their 12-5 victory.
The Bronx crowd rose to its feet as Stroman walked off the mound. It was his first standing ovation since April — and potentially his most meaningful.
From struggles to success, a Yankees turnaround
The Yankees rotation has faced significant challenges recently. Luis Gil remains on the mend from fatigue issues. Ryan Yarbrough continues dealing with an oblique injury. Stroman’s return couldn’t have come at a better time.
The 34-year-old veteran entered Sunday with questions surrounding his effectiveness. His season began poorly with an 11.57 ERA across three starts before left knee inflammation sent him to the injured list.
Stroman’s rehabilitation wasn’t encouraging either. Three minor league outings with Double-A Somerset produced mixed results. His final tune-up was particularly rough — 10 hits and five runs allowed.
But the Yankees star never wavered in his confidence.
“I tore my ACL and made it back in five months,” Stroman said. “So I don’t do doubt.”
That determination showed on Sunday. Stroman threw 74 pitches and surrendered only three hits. Willie MacIver’s solo homer in the fifth inning was the lone blemish. Two walks and one strikeout completed his line.
He departed with a commanding 10-1 lead, positioning himself for his first victory since August 2024.
AP Photo/Adam Hunger
Early scare doesn’t deter Stroman
The second inning provided a frightening moment. Max Muncy lined a ball directly back at Stroman, striking him in the hamstring.
“It crushed me,” the Yankees pitcher said. “Pretty firm. It hurt a lot.”
“He gave us everything we needed,” the manager said. “Really happy for him.”
Effective mix keeps A’s hitters guessing
Stroman’s arsenal proved effective throughout his outing. His signature sinker-cutter combination mixed seamlessly with breaking balls. The Athletics never found a rhythm against his varied approach.
Boone described the pitch selection as “a little unpredictable.” The Athletics managed minimal hard contact until MacIver’s fifth-inning blast.
The third inning showcased Stroman’s veteran savvy. With two runners on base and one out, he induced a crucial double play. Jazz Chisholm Jr. started the twin killing and later praised his teammate’s competitiveness.
“It was great to see how he turned the page and came back with a vengeance,” Chisholm said. “He just attacked the zone all day and made great pitches.”
Broader impact for New York Yankees rotation
Sunday’s victory extended the Yankees’ AL East lead. But Stroman’s performance carries implications beyond one game.
New York’s rotation leads Major League Baseball in ERA over the past two months. This success comes despite Gerrit Cole’s season-ending injury. Stroman’s return adds crucial depth and postseason experience.
The veteran right-hander enters his contract’s final year with plenty to prove. Performances like Sunday’s demonstrate his continued value despite modest strikeout numbers.
“I just feel like I’ve done a really good job putting my body and my mechanics in a better position,” Stroman said. “It’s been a process, but yeah, I feel good.”
His pregame bullpen session provided the final confidence boost he needed.
“I feel like this was a good building block to the next start.”
Clubhouse energy Boost
NYY
Stroman’s return energized his teammates visibly. Players greeted him with handshakes and smiles as he left the field. The veteran appreciated being back where he belongs.
“It’s not the same being on the side,” he said. “You feel like you’re left out. Definitely good to be back with the boys.”
The Yankees now have flexibility in managing innings for recovering pitchers. Gil and Yarbrough can return gradually without overextending the rotation. Stroman’s presence provides essential breathing room.
Looking ahead
Stroman isn’t fully stretched out yet. Boone indicated a gradual buildup over his next few starts. The Yankees don’t need dominance — reliability will suffice.
The trade deadline approaches with New York Yankees eyeing postseason positioning. Rotation reinforcements remain under consideration. But if Stroman continues delivering quality starts, he could become their internal solution.
Sunday established the template. Five solid innings, veteran intelligence, and fearless execution — classic Stroman baseball at its finest.
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