The future of Marcus Stroman with the New York Yankees has been the subject of speculation, particularly after a disappointing second half of the season that left him out of postseason action. With five pitchers ahead of him in the rotation and Stroman himself hinting on social media that he could become a “salary dump,” many believed his days with the Yankees were numbered.
However, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has pushed back against those assumptions. Speaking to reporters, including Peter Sblendorio of the New York Daily News, Cashman emphasized Stroman’s potential value. “Don’t assume where Stro fits for us. He may very well play an important role, despite current perceptions,” Cashman stated. “Let’s see how things unfold this offseason.”
Stroman is under contract for two years at $37 million, with an option for 2026 that activates if he pitches at least 140 innings in 2025. Yet, with a starting rotation that includes Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, Max Fried, Clarke Schmidt, and reigning AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil, Stroman appears to be on the outside looking in.
Even so, Cashman knows that pitching depth is critical, especially given injury risks. Both Cole and Schmidt faced health issues last season, and Fried’s history with injuries adds further uncertainty. Additionally, the Yankees traded Nestor Cortes to Milwaukee, leaving the rotation thinner.
Despite Stroman’s struggles in the second half, Cashman highlighted his strong first half, where he posted a 6-2 record with a 2.82 ERA over 14 starts, and his reliability throughout the season. While his role remains unclear, Stroman is still “in the mix.”
