One of the most poorly kept secrets this offseason has been the New York Yankees’ intention to part ways with Marcus Stroman and his contract.
With one year and $18.5 million left on his $37 million deal, Stroman has turned into an odd man out in the starting rotation since the Yankees added lefty Max Fried during free agency.
With the Yankees aiming to stay below the $301 million luxury tax limit, Stroman’s contract has turned into a contentious issue in those endeavors.
Nonetheless, ex-Yankees outfielder and present MLB broadcaster Cameron Maybin suggested that a deal might be coming sooner instead of later.
“I believe we can confidently expect some Marcus Stroman updates shortly!” Maybin shared on X.
This would be a significant relief for the Yankees. This would not only create extra funds to bring in another infielder, but Stroman doesn’t truly fit into the existing lineup.
With the present starting rotation featuring Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodon, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt, the five positions are already secured. Furthermore, Stroman lacks any experience in the bullpen, and it appears that won’t be an option for the 33-year-old.
Although Stroman had a strong beginning with the Yankees in 2024, his season swiftly declined.
Among pitchers who logged a minimum of 150 innings in the 2024 season, Stroman’s strikeout rate of 16.7% was tied for the lowest in MLB. In the meantime, his walk rate of 8.9% was equal to the 11th-highest figure.
Another concern regarding Stroman’s contract is the vesting option he holds for the 2026 season. Should he pitch 140 innings in 2025, he will have a player option for $18.3 million the following year, according to Spotrac.
Acquiring Stroman’s contract — or at least a significant portion of it — is the main goal for the Yankees at this moment, so we’ll find out if there was any substance to the hints from Maybin’s social media post.
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