Marcus Stroman’s name has been swirling in trade speculation since the early days of the offseason, and now, despite being on the injured list, his market value might actually be on the rise.
According to a recent report from USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Yankees are still considering trade options for the veteran right-hander.
Nightengale notes that Stroman’s stint on the injured list could increase his appeal to potential suitors because it makes it less likely his 2026 vesting option will trigger – effectively making him a rental.
Stroman, who began the season as part of New York’s rotation out of necessity after injuries ravaged the pitching staff, struggled badly in his brief appearances.
He allowed 15 earned runs in just 11.2 innings over three starts, posting a bloated 11.57 ERA before landing on the IL with a knee injury following a rough outing against the San Francisco Giants.
Initially, Stroman wasn’t expected to be a mainstay in the rotation. But the Yankees’ hand was forced after Gerrit Cole underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery and breakout arm Luis Gil suffered a significant lat strain.
Since Stroman’s exit, however, the Yankees’ pitching depth has stabilized – and even improved. Ryan Yarbrough and Will Warren have delivered solid performances, helping to steady a rotation that now has more viable arms than open spots.
Reinforcements are also on the horizon.
JT Brubaker is beginning a rehab assignment, Luis Gil has resumed a throwing program, and Anthony DeSclafani recently joined Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
The veteran righty pitched four strong innings in his organizational debut, giving up just one run while striking out five – with an uptick in fastball velocity compared to his 2023 numbers.
Younger arms like Cam Schlittler and Brendan Beck, both performing well at Double-A, could also be in line for promotions in the coming weeks.
All of this adds to the sense that Stroman is no longer essential to New York’s rotation plans – and may even be expendable.
Stroman could still attract interest from pitching-starved teams looking for short-term help.
Clubs such as the Orioles, Athletics, Brewers, and Blue Jays – all of whom have endured a mix of injuries and underperformance – could be in the market for starting pitching depth as the summer wears on.
The Yankees, with ample internal depth, are reportedly willing to offload Stroman for minimal return, especially if they eat part of his remaining salary. That financial flexibility could then be used at the trade deadline to pursue other upgrades.
If the Yankees are willing to pay a portion of his deal, teams may see a low-risk, high-reward scenario: a veteran arm on an expiring contract who can be cut loose without much downside if struggles continue.
While nothing is imminent, the situation around Stroman is trending toward a midseason exit from the Bronx.
With his 2026 option unlikely to vest due to time missed, and with the Yankees’ depth rendering him surplus, the front office may look to flip the former All-Star before the trade market heats up.
If the right offer comes along – or if pitching needs become dire enough elsewhere – expect general manager Brian Cashman to pounce.
What are your thoughts on the speculation that Stroman’s days in pinstripes will soon be coming to an end???
