Marcus Stroman Reports to Yankees Camp, Firm on Starting Role
After missing the first two days of spring training workouts, Marcus Stroman arrived at New York Yankees camp on Friday and made his stance clear—he is a starting pitcher, not a reliever.
Stroman’s Stance: “I’m a Starter”
Speaking to reporters, Stroman repeatedly emphasized his role.
“I won’t pitch in the bullpen. I’m a starter,” he declared, repeating the phrase seven times in 13 seconds.
With the Yankees’ rotation set to feature Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt, Stroman’s place as a starter isn’t guaranteed. If he remains with the team and the rotation stays healthy, a bullpen role could become a real possibility.
However, Yankees manager Aaron Boone downplayed any speculation, stating:
“We’re building him up to be a starting pitcher. As we go, when things come up, we’ll address them.”
Unlike teams such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets, who are considering six-man rotations, Boone indicated the Yankees are unlikely to follow suit.
Delayed Arrival & Spring Training Outlook
Despite Stroman’s delayed arrival, he was under no obligation to report until Feb. 22 under the collective bargaining agreement. He explained his decision to show up on Friday:
“I just felt like today was a good day to come. Valentine’s Day, I feel like the vibes are going to be proper. Everyone’s happy on this day.”
Stroman had already spoken with Boone about his schedule, describing their conversation as “great” and “seamless.”
“My relationship with the guys in the clubhouse hasn’t changed. So I feel great to be back and I’m ready to roll.”
Stroman is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday as he begins ramping up for the season.
Contract & Performance Outlook
The 33-year-old right-hander is entering the second season of a $37 million, two-year contract and is set to earn $18 million in 2025. He also has a conditional player option for 2026 that activates if he reaches 140 innings pitched this season.
Last season, Stroman posted a 10-9 record with a 4.31 ERA in 29 starts and one relief appearance. His September struggles (0-3, 8.80 ERA) led to him being left off the ALDS roster, though he was later added for the ALCS and World Series—where he ultimately did not pitch.
Looking Ahead
While Stroman acknowledged he was open to a relief role during the postseason, he reiterated that he sees himself as a full-time starter in the regular season.
“Playoffs call for different circumstances. I was completely fine with that,” he said. “But overall, I’m a starter. I’ve been doing this 10-plus years. Not many people do it at the level I do or stay healthy enough to give 30-plus starts year after year.”
With a career record of 87-85 and a 3.72 ERA across 10 MLB seasons, Stroman remains a durable and experienced starter. However, his role with the Yankees remains uncertain as spring training progresses.
For now, both Stroman and the Yankees are focused on preparation rather than speculation.
“Glad he’s here today,” Boone said. “He really is in a good frame of mind and I think he’s ready to go physically, mentally. It’s our job to help him get ready.”
