TAMPA, Fla. — The New York Yankees have noticed the absence of Marcus Stroman during their initial spring training sessions. Stroman, a seasoned pitcher, is not obligated to join the team until the mandatory reporting date of February 22, as stipulated by the collective bargaining agreement. Nonetheless, many players typically arrive at the facility earlier for voluntary workouts.
The 33-year-old right-handed pitcher is expected to take on the role of the sixth man in the Yankees’ starting rotation. Yankees manager Aaron Boone addressed Stroman’s absence during a media session after the team’s second practice day. “I had some sense of it. When we spoke, I anticipated that he might miss the first couple of days,” Boone stated. He acknowledged the ongoing speculation surrounding Stroman and emphasized that the CBA allows for this kind of situation to happen. He expressed confidence, explaining that he had recently communicated with Stroman and felt assured that he was prepared mentally and physically for the season ahead. He is hopeful that Stroman will join the team shortly.
Boone, however, refrained from disclosing the specific reasons behind Stroman’s absence, stating, “I’m not going to speak for him.”
Stroman boasts a career record of 87-85 and a 3.72 ERA over ten seasons in Major League Baseball. He is set to earn an $18 million salary in the second year of a two-year, $37 million contract, which includes a conditional player option for 2026—triggered if he accumulates at least 140 innings this season.
The Yankees’ first five starting pitchers consist of Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt. In his debut season with the Yankees, Stroman concluded with a 10-9 record and a 4.31 ERA, having made 29 starts along with one relief appearance. Unfortunately, he struggled towards the end of the season, finishing September with an 0-3 record and an 8.80 ERA over four appearances. Although he was omitted from the Yankees’ roster for the Division Series, he was later included in the lineup for the League Championship and World Series, though did not have any pitching appearances in those matches.
“I clearly want all our players here,” Boone remarked. Yet, he added that he feels comfortable with Stroman’s current physical and mental state. Boone noted Stroman’s pride in his career, recognizing the complex situation but also stressing respect for his choice to adhere to the reporting guidelines established by the league. Boone expressed his desire to encourage Stroman to come to spring training while understanding the rules that govern player attendance.
