It’s worth noting that weeks ago, Marcus Stroman made it clear that he didn’t want to be a reliever and that his sole focus is as a starter. Now, the date is set for the New York Yankees to see again if he’s ready for that crucial role from the mound.
According to official information from the Yankees, Stroman will take the mound again in the Spring Training game on February 25 against the Minnesota Twins. He started 29 games in 2024, posting a 10-9 record and a 4.31 ERA, which is his second-highest career average since making his MLB debut in 2014.
It’s important to remember that Stroman wasn’t part of the 2024 World Series. He hasn’t played in the playoffs since 2016 when he was with the Toronto Blue Jays. To date, he has only five career starts in the postseason.
After starting the first game with the Yankees in a 4-0 victory over Tampa Bay, Stroman declared he wasn’t distracted by the idea of not having a secured spot in the rotation squad. “I haven’t thought about it, to be honest,” he stated, asserting his value as a pitcher, saying “I know who I am as a pitcher. I’m a very confident pitcher.”
Stroman with Boone and other Yankees’ players during the 2024 season.
Stroman reiterates that he does not want to be a reliever
After the end of the spring game against Tampa, Stroman did not hesitate to support what he said weeks ago: he does not want to be a reliever. “I was sitting in a room like this when I first came up and everybody told me I would never be able to be a starter; ‘[5-foot-7], you’re too small, you’re going to break down,’” Stroman said. “Go look at my career. I’ve been doing this for a long time at a high level, and I keep my body healthy. I pride myself on that.”
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Since his debut in 2014, Stroman has established himself as a reliable starter, known for his strong performances on the mound. Over his career, he has accumulated a 3.72 ERA, 87-85 win-loss record, and 1,204 strikeouts in 1,458.1 innings pitched. Stroman’s resilience and skill have made him a valuable asset to every team he’s played for, earning him two All-Star selections and a Gold Glove Award.
