With MLB Spring Training in full swing, the 2025 season is just around the corner. For teams, this marks the final stretch to finalize their Opening Day rosters through pivotal free agent signings and trades.
For the New York Yankees, the absence of pitcher Marcus Stroman from workouts has raised eyebrows. This situation suggests that the Yankees might be playing it safe, aiming to avoid any potential injuries while they negotiate a trade.
It seems increasingly likely that Stroman will be dealt, but the question remains – to which team? Several contenders jump to mind as possible suitors.
The Yankees’ Likely Trade of Marcus Stroman:
All signs point to a trade being completed before Opening Day. Brendan Kuty has reported that the Yankees are intent on trading Stroman before they turn their attention to upgrading third base.
With the recent addition of Max Fried in the offseason, Stroman has slipped down the starting rotation depth chart. Considering his salary of $18.5 million as the sixth starter, the Yankees face a tough decision about keeping him on the roster. However, the financial commitment could deter other teams from acquiring him unless the Yankees are willing to absorb part of Stroman’s salary.
Stroman is coming off a season where he recorded a 5.88 ERA, which is starkly contrasting to his impressive 2.82 ERA through June 11. Even so, he is a two-time All-Star with significant potential, making him an intriguing candidate for the right team looking to make a splash.
Top Trade Destinations for Marcus Stroman:
- St. Louis Cardinals The Cardinals have emerged as a strong candidate for Stroman, as this deal could address needs for both teams. New York could set its sights on Nolan Arenado in such a transaction to fill their third base vacancy. Despite a subpar season where Arenado’s numbers dipped to .272 with 16 home runs and 71 RBIs, he has demonstrated consistent power throughout his career with seven seasons surpassing the 30-home run mark. As a player focused on winning, his desire to be on a contending team aligns perfectly with what the Yankees can offer. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are seeking to bolster their bullpen after finishing 20th in starters’ ERA last season.
- Cincinnati Reds With the hiring of Terry Francona and a promising group of young stars like Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and Tyler Stephenson, the Reds are poised for a leap in 2025. However, they still need to enhance their pitching roster. While acquiring Brady Singer helped, their bullpen depth remains a concern. The Yankees could benefit from this situation by acquiring Spencer Steer, a young infielder with a strong performance last season, boasting a .275 average, 23 home runs, and 87 RBIs. Given the Reds’ wealth of infield talent, Steer could be the perfect candidate to move in exchange for some much-needed pitching depth.
- San Diego Padres The Padres showed strong interest in signing Roki Sasaki, who ultimately joined the Los Angeles Dodgers, but they are still in need of solidifying their pitching rotation. Though not on the same level as Sasaki, Stroman could help round out their starting staff. In return, the Yankees might pursue Luis Arraez, who has a lifetime slash line of .323/.372/.418, demonstrating his effectiveness at getting on base. While Arraez may not shine defensively, his offensive prowess is imperative for the Yankees, especially now that they seek to fill the void left by Juan Soto’s departure, complementing the likes of Aaron Judge in their lineup.
As the spring progresses and trade talks heat up, all eyes will be on how the Yankees navigate this situation with Stroman, a decision that could significantly impact both their roster and the broader MLB landscape as the new season approaches.
