The New York Yankees may be approaching a critical decision point with veteran pitcher Marcus Stroman. Despite attempts to trade him before the 2025 season, his large contract prevented any deals. Left with few options, the Yankees kept Stroman on the roster, hoping he could still provide some value.
However, things quickly went downhill. Stroman struggled through three poor starts, posting an alarming 11.57 ERA over just 9.1 innings before being placed on the injured list due to a knee issue. The organization hoped a stint in the minors would help him get back on track, but his rehab outings have only increased concern. In three appearances, including a rough outing at Double-A Somerset, he holds a 6.97 ERA, and his command issues have become a major red flag.
Without elite velocity or dominant pitches, Stroman has relied heavily on pinpoint control throughout his career. But as age and injuries have diminished his arsenal, even that edge seems to be fading. Without reliable command, it’s becoming difficult to envision Stroman as a productive option at the major league level.
The Yankees currently have an opening in their rotation after Ryan Yarbrough was placed on the injured list. Allan Winans was called up to fill that spot temporarily, but he too has shown limitations. Initially, it seemed Stroman would return to fill the gap, but his continued struggles have made that unlikely. Manager Aaron Boone has not yet named a starter for the upcoming series against the Athletics, and Winans may get another chance.
If Stroman cannot outperform a fringe starter like Winans, it could mean the end of his time in New York. Although releasing Stroman would mean eating the $18.5 million left on his contract, the Yankees may have no choice but to designate him for assignment to make room for more capable pitchers on the 40-man roster.
While promising Triple-A arm Cam Schlittler could be an option down the line, he’s not expected to be called up just yet. The Yankees might instead hold off on drastic moves while waiting for Yarbrough and Luis Gil to return from injuries shortly after the All-Star break. But another setback could force the front office’s hand.
For now, Stroman’s time in pinstripes appears to be running out. What began as a dream stint with the Yankees is looking more like a disappointment — for both the player and the franchise.
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