The Yankees are reportedly “actively trying to deal” starting pitcher Marcus Stroman, according to USA Today. Stroman, 33, is set to earn $18.5 million in 2025, with a player option worth $18 million for 2026. His 2024 season raised concerns about his long-term role with the team. He pitched 154 ⅔ innings over 29 starts and one relief appearance, finishing with a 10-9 record, a 4.31 ERA (95 ERA+), a 1.47 WHIP, and 113 strikeouts against 60 walks. Despite being included on the Yankees’ postseason roster, he did not appear in any games. His modest 0.7 WAR last season, coupled with his hefty contract, has left the Yankees eager to find a trade partner.
The addition of Max Fried this offseason created a logjam in New York’s rotation, with six starters vying for five spots: Fried, Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Clarke Schmidt, Luis Gil, and Stroman. As the odd man out, Stroman’s struggles and financial implications make him the most likely candidate to be traded. Earlier reports suggested the Yankees proposed a trade involving Stroman and St. Louis Cardinals’ star Nolan Arenado, but the deal fell through. Now, with Brian Cashman reportedly more eager to offload Stroman’s salary, the team is exploring options to ensure they don’t carry his contract into the season. The hot pitching market may work in New York’s favor, though the return for Stroman is not expected to be substantial.
Pirates show interest in former Yankee
On the other hand, outfielder Alex Verdugo has also drawn interest on the trade market, with the Pittsburgh Pirates reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring him, according to Robert Murray of FanSided. Verdugo’s first season with the Yankees was a disappointment. Acquired in a trade with the Red Sox last December, he hit just .233/.291/.356 with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs in 2024—a significant drop-off in production during his walk year.
Despite his struggles, Verdugo expressed interest in returning to New York following the Yankees’ World Series loss to the Dodgers. “I definitely want to be back in pinstripes to help us win one,” he said. However, given his underwhelming offensive numbers, a reunion appears unlikely. Pittsburgh, in need of offensive reinforcements, seems like a logical fit. While no deal is imminent, Murray noted that the Pirates “do like” Verdugo as a potential addition.
Yankees explore infield options after missing on Gavin Lux
The Yankees’ offseason has been a flurry of activity, headlined by the acquisitions of Fried, Paul Goldschmidt, Devin Williams, and Cody Bellinger. However, the team still has pressing needs, particularly in the infield. After missing out on Gavin Lux, who was traded to the Cincinnati Reds this week, New York’s focus has reportedly shifted to three-time batting champion Luis Arraez.
Arraez, currently with the San Diego Padres, is entering his final year of team control. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports that the Yankees remain in discussions about acquiring him. Adding Arraez would address New York’s leadoff needs while bringing a high-contact hitter to a lineup heavy on power. However, Arraez’s defensive limitations mirror some of the concerns the team had with Gleyber Torres, whom they appear intent on replacing. Should the Yankees fail to land Arraez, they may face an unappealing scenario of rotating DJ LeMahieu, Oswald Peraza, and Oswaldo Cabrera in key infield roles.
Despite an active offseason, the Yankees still have work to do to solidify their roster for 2025. Beyond resolving Stroman’s future and addressing infield needs, they are also likely to pursue bullpen reinforcements. Cashman’s patience in addressing these issues contrasts with his earlier aggressiveness but reflects the confidence that there’s time to finalize moves before Spring Training.
With over a month remaining in the offseason, the Yankees are positioned to make additional impactful moves. Whether they can navigate the complexities of Stroman’s trade market, secure a high-quality infielder like Arraez, or bolster their bullpen will determine whether they enter the 2025 season as legitimate World Series contenders. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Cashman continues to shape the roster.
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