During the 2019 trade deadline, Marcus Stroman, the right-handed pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, was heavily rumored to be a sought-after acquisition, especially given his confident style on the mound. Despite the New York Yankees struggling with inconsistent starting pitching and injuries, general manager Brian Cashman made it clear they were not interested in acquiring Stroman at that time.
Cashman’s reasoning sparked debate, as the left-hander had posted an impressive 2.96 ERA over 21 starts. The Yankees’ rejection was tied to their belief that Stroman would better serve their bullpen rather than fill a starting role.
How Brian Cashman Viewed Stroman’s Role in the Yankees’ Postseason
We felt he would be in our bullpen in the postseason,
Cashman said in response to questions about passing on Stroman. This statement revealed the Yankees’ perspective that, despite Stroman’s strong starting performance, he did not fit their rotation needs.
Instead of joining the Yankees, Stroman was traded to the New York Mets, while the Yankees maintained their roster, only to suffer a collapse in their starting rotation during the postseason without securing additional pitching support.
Stroman reacted strongly to the dismissal. Known for his confidence and outspoken nature, he took to social media to defend his performance and questioned the Yankees’ judgment. When speaking with reporters later, he described the Yankees’ decision as a case of doubled down on ignorance, and emphasized that he would not forget their evaluation.
Marcus Stroman’s Arrival and Role with the Yankees in 2024
In 2024, Marcus Stroman finally joined the New York Yankees, marking a significant turn in his career. Over 29 starts, he recorded a 10–9 win-loss record, a 4.31 ERA, and 113 strikeouts. While his stats were not dominant, he provided valuable innings and stability to a rotation in clear need of reliable production.
Though initially viewed as a potential disruption for the Yankees’ traditionally disciplined clubhouse, Stroman’s energy and competitive edge soon became an integral part of the team culture.
New Obstacles for Stroman and the Yankees in 2025
Despite a hopeful trajectory, Stroman faced major setbacks early in the 2025 season. In his first three starts, he struggled significantly, posting an alarming 11.57 ERA with a 2.04 WHIP and only managing seven strikeouts, alongside an 0-1 record. His command issues and difficulty limiting hard contact raised concerns about his effectiveness as a starter.
On April 12, prior to a game against the San Francisco Giants, Stroman was placed on the Yankees’ 15-day injured list due to left knee discomfort. This injury is an early blow for both the pitcher and a Yankees team that relies on him to anchor the middle of their rotation.
What Lies Ahead for Marcus Stroman and the Yankees
Marcus Stroman’s path from being undervalued during the trade deadline to becoming a key starter for the Yankees has been marked by resilience and determination. Yet baseball’s unpredictability continues to test even its toughest competitors. As Stroman works through his injury and strives for a comeback, the Yankees and their pitcher remain cautiously optimistic about his ability to contribute meaningfully in the coming months. The next chapter in his journey, while uncertain, holds promise for both player and team.