According to a New York Post’s Joel Sherman report, the New York Yankees have reached an agreement with veteran starting pitcher Marcus Stroman on a lucrative two-year, $37 million contract. This deal comes after Stroman declined his $21 million player option for the 2024 MLB season, making him a free agent.
Stroman’s decision to test the free-agent market didn’t come as a shock, considering his performance on the mound. However, in hindsight, he may have wanted to reconsider his choice. Throughout the season, he posted a 10-9 record with a 3.95 ERA and a 3.58 FIP in 27 appearances. One of his standout moments came in a 1-0 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, where he pitched a complete game shutout, recording eight strikeouts, one walk, and allowing only one hit.
Unfortunately, as the season progressed, Stroman’s stock took a hit. In the second half, he struggled, surrendering 23 earned runs and sporting a 1.96 WHIP in just 24 innings pitched. Additionally, a rib cartilage fracture sidelined him in August, causing him to miss over a month of action and further contributing to his struggles.
Despite these setbacks, Stroman’s overall performance remained consistent with his career numbers. Over his nine seasons in the league, he has maintained a solid 3.65 ERA and a 3.63 FIP, averaging 8.7 strikeouts and 2.6 walks per nine innings.
Known for his diverse pitching repertoire, Stroman keeps opposing hitters guessing with his six different pitches: sinker, slurve, cutter, four-seam fastball, splitter, and slider, as reported by Baseball Savant.
While Stroman’s performance dipped in the latter half of the season, it shouldn’t be a major concern for the Yankees. Although he may not be the dominant ace he appeared to be at the start of 2023, he is also not the liability he was for the Cubs in the latter part of the season.
Stroman will now join a Yankees pitching staff led by 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole, adding depth and experience to their rotation.
