Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Yankees' Attempts to Trade Marcus Stroman Leads to Mysterious Absence

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sean Treppedi | Last updated Feb 13, 2025 12:46 PM ET

The New York Yankees have spent the offseason seeking a suitor for right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman, but alas, have had no takers.

Stroman, who posted his highest ERA since 2018 (4.31) in New York, signed a two-year last offseason worth $37 million.

Pitchers and catchers reported to on-field drills on Tuesday and Stroman has not appeared.

Per the collective bargaining agreement, the mandatory report date is Feb. 22. However, a source via the New York Post that is close to Stroman’s plans indicated that he is expected to arrive ahead of the first full-squad workout on Monday, potentially as soon as Friday or Saturday.

The same source added that his absence is not in relation to protesting the trade pursuits.

According to Yankees skipper Aaron Boone, Stroman is in both good spirits and physical condition. Stroman was present at Steinbrenner Field earlier in the week to complete mandatory physicals.

While Boone has not confirmed that official starting rotation, insiders project Gerritt Cole, Max Fried, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodon and Clarke Schmidt to round out the group, leaving Stroman as the odd-man out.

So it would take one of those names to face an injury for Stroman to rejoin the mix. While he finished the year 10-9 and had tough outings down the stretch, Stroman proved his best pitching when ace Gerritt Cole was out with injury for the first few months of 2024.

Stroman was omitted from the Yankees' ALDS roster against the Kansas City Royals, but was added back on for the ALCS against the Cleveland Guardians for his ability to provide " length."

He never saw the mound, however.

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

More must-reads: