Struggling Arm Demoted as Yankees Prep for Marcus Stroman’s Return

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 6:13 PM ET

The Yankees didn’t wait long to make their next roster move. Shortly after Saturday’s 7-0 loss to the A’s, the club optioned Allan Winans to Triple-A—clearing the roster spot Marcus Stroman will take when he’s activated Sunday.

Winans gave up three runs (two earned) on three hits in two innings of mop-up duty Saturday afternoon. It wasn’t the worst outing of his week, but it didn’t do much to strengthen his case for a roster spot either.

Earlier in the week, the right-hander got the ball to open Monday’s game in Cincinnati. It was a chance to make an impression with the rotation in flux. Instead, he allowed four runs on five hits over 4 1/3 innings. He didn’t miss many bats and couldn’t make it through the fifth.

Now sporting an 8.53 ERA, Winans heads back to the minors after two outings that left more questions than answers.

The Yankees needed someone to eat innings in the short term. Winans filled the role—but just barely. His fastball sat in the low 90s, and while he mixed in a few decent changeups and curveballs, he wasn’t fooling many hitters.

That brings us to Stroman.

The veteran right-hander hasn’t pitched in the majors since April due to knee inflammation, but he’ll get the ball Sunday. He’s looked shaky during his rehab stint, including a rough final start for Double-A Somerset. He wasn't much better before he got hurt, pitching to an 11.57 ERA.

But the Yankees are banking on his experience to be able to eat innings.

Winans will remain in the depth mix. But for now, the spot belongs to Stroman—ready or not.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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