Apologies and Reconciliation Mark Yankees’ Deal with Marcus Stroman
In a gesture of contrition, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman issued an apology to Marcus Stroman for remarks made in 2019, a move preceding the negotiation of a $37 million, two-year contract with the 32-year-old right-hander.
Cashman’s comments about potentially trading for Stroman with Toronto raised eyebrows, with the GM stating, “We were interested in Stroman but we didn’t think he would be a difference-maker.” This prompted an apology through Stroman’s agent at the time and a direct apology during recent negotiations.
During a Zoom news conference, Cashman acknowledged his misjudgment, stating, “That was my bad because then how it played wasn’t certainly how it was intended.” Stroman, in response, indicated that they had reconciled during a phone call, with laughter marking the resolution.
A two-time All-Star, Stroman faced challenges last season, missing six weeks with the Chicago Cubs due to hip inflammation and a rib cartilage fracture. Despite finishing 10-9 with a 3.95 ERA, his highest since 2018, Stroman brings a competitive spirit to the Yankees’ rotation, joining Aaron Boone, Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole, Anthony Rizzo, and Anthony Volpe in recruitment efforts.
Cashman emphasized Stroman’s eagerness for the New York stage, dispelling notions that some players shy away from the city’s intensity. “There is a population of major league talent that does not want to play in the New York arena. It’s too hot. It’s too difficult. It’s too much. But that is not this player,” Cashman affirmed.
Known for a perceived contentious relationship with fans, Stroman sees himself as misunderstood, expressing confidence that his tenure with the Yankees will reveal his true character as a teammate.
The Yankees’ rotation, also featuring AL Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes, and Clarke Schmidt, is poised for a strong season. Cashman highlighted the team’s offseason acquisitions, including outfielders Juan Soto, Alex Verdugo, and Trent Grisham.
Addressing concerns about key players, Cashman expects the return of center fielder Jasson Domínguez from Tommy John surgery in the summer. Giancarlo Stanton’s offseason focus on conditioning and diet aims to rebound from a challenging season, where he hit a career-worst .191 with 60 RBIs. The team has received positive reports on Anthony Rizzo’s recovery from a concussion suffered on May 28, with doctors indicating a full clearance and no expected return of the issue.