Marcus Stroman Reports to Yankees Camp, Reaffirms He’s a Starter
Marcus Stroman made his long-awaited arrival at Yankees Spring Training on Friday, and he made one thing very clear:
“I’m a starter. I won’t pitch in the bullpen.”
The 33-year-old right-hander repeated that phrase 11 times during a 10-minute media session at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, reinforcing his stance amid speculation about his role in the Yankees’ pitching plans.
Stroman’s Offseason & Yankees Uncertainty
🔹 Trade Rumors: The Yankees reportedly tried to move Stroman this offseason but haven’t found a suitor.
🔹 Rotation Logjam: With Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes, Clarke Schmidt, and newly acquired Max Fried projected to be in the rotation, Stroman appears to be the odd man out—for now.
🔹 Late Arrival: He exercised his CBA-given right to report late, officially arriving Feb. 16.
Despite the rumors and uncertainty, Stroman insists his focus is on starting and staying prepared for the season:
“I know I can compete at any level, with any team. If I’m here, if I’m not here, my body’s ready to roll. I’m ready to go out there and give 30-plus starts.”
Boone’s Response: No Immediate Concerns
Yankees manager Aaron Boone said he is not worried about Stroman’s strong stance against pitching out of the bullpen.
“Right now, the focus is getting him ready to go,” Boone said.
With six weeks until Opening Day, injuries or roster moves could change the Yankees’ pitching picture. For now, the team is preparing Stroman as a starter.
A Tough Offseason for Stroman
Beyond baseball, Stroman revealed a personal hardship—losing his Malibu home in the California wildfires this January.
The Long Island native spent most of the offseason at his Tampa-area home, where he trained before reporting to Yankees camp.
As for why Valentine’s Day weekend felt like the right time to arrive?
“Felt like today was a good day to come. Valentine’s Day, feel like the vibes are going to be proper. Everyone’s happy on this day.”
What’s Next for Stroman & the Yankees?
The Yankees have time to sort out their rotation dilemma, but Stroman is standing firm:
✅ He wants to start
✅ He believes he can contribute
✅ He has no plans to move to the bullpen
Whether the Yankees stick with him or ultimately trade him remains to be seen, but Stroman is ready to prove he belongs in the rotation—whether in New York or elsewhere.
