It looks like the New York Yankees have successfully completed a significant move for their pitching rotation by signing Marcus Stroman to a two-year, $37 million deal. Stroman, a 32-year-old right-handed pitcher, brings experience, talent, and a solid track record to a Yankees staff looking to bolster its pitching depth for the 2025 MLB season and beyond.
Stroman’s Background and Performance
Stroman has been a consistent performer in Major League Baseball since making his debut in 2014 with the Toronto Blue Jays. Known for his sinker, ground ball tendencies, and exceptional fielding, Stroman has carved out a reputation as a durable and reliable starter. He’s had stints with the Blue Jays, New York Mets, and Chicago Cubs, with his most notable stretch coming during his time with the Mets. Over the years, he’s developed a reputation for thriving in big moments, having helped teams make deep playoff pushes and earn All-Star nods.
In his 2024 season with the Cubs, Stroman posted a 3.35 ERA, continuing to show his ability to keep hitters off balance with his sharp breaking pitches and solid command. This deal with the Yankees comes after Stroman expressed interest in playing for a contender, and it makes perfect sense that New York, with its championship aspirations, would look to add him to their rotation. His history of pitching in the postseason is also a big plus, providing New York with a veteran presence to complement their younger arms.
Why Stroman Makes Sense for the Yankees
The Yankees’ pitching rotation has been a point of concern over the past few years. Injuries have plagued several of their starters, and while Gerrit Cole remains one of the league’s top pitchers, the rotation has lacked the depth and consistency that would make the team a real force in October. By adding Stroman, they add not only a capable pitcher but one who can eat innings and give them reliable outings.
Stroman also fits the Yankees’ profile of a ground ball pitcher, which is especially beneficial when playing in the stadium’s smaller dimensions. His ability to induce weak contact can help limit home runs, which have been a problem for some of their previous starters. Plus, with the Yankees’ infield defense often shifting heavily, Stroman’s knack for getting ground balls should mesh well with how they align their defense.
What Does the Deal Mean for the Yankees’ 2025 Season?
With this signing, the Yankees solidify their rotation with a dependable arm to pair with Cole, and a pitcher who can bridge the gap between the ace and the other young arms they may have on the roster. Stroman’s leadership and experience will also play a key role in mentoring the Yankees’ younger pitchers, helping them adjust to the pressures of a playoff chase.
In addition, this signing could help the Yankees make a stronger push to win the AL East and potentially secure a top spot in the playoffs. With a potent offense led by players like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, the Yankees now look more balanced with an improved pitching staff.
Conclusion
The two-year, $37 million deal between Marcus Stroman and the New York Yankees seems like a smart move for both sides. Stroman provides an immediate upgrade to the Yankees’ rotation while giving them the kind of depth and stability they need to contend in 2025. With Stroman’s competitive fire and skill set, New York now has a more complete pitching staff to back their powerful offense in their pursuit of another World Series championship.