The New York Yankees fans face further disappointment with the latest update on Marcus Stroman’s knee, compelling the team to announce a replacement in their starting rotation.

Marcus Stroman #0 of the New York Yankees looks on in the first inning of a Grapefruit League spring training game against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 21, 2025 in Tampa, Florida. © Getty Images Marcus Stroman #0 of the New York Yankees looks on in the first inning of a Grapefruit League spring training game against the Tampa Bay Rays at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 21, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

The New York Yankees have confronted the inevitable regarding Marcus Stroman, officially placing their starter on the 15-day injured list due to his ailing left knee. This move sidelines him from the rotation indefinitely, and the team has already announced his replacement.

According to the Yankees’ announcement on X, Stroman is dealing with inflammation in his knee and will be unavailable to pitch until the issue resolves. Stepping into his spot for now will be Allan Winans, who pitched for the Atlanta Braves in his first eight MLB games across the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

With Stroman’s absence compounding recent blunt assessments from manager Aaron Boone about the rotation’s struggles, a shadow begins to fall over the Yankees’ outlook. Despite a potent offense, their pitching woes persist and appear to be an ongoing challenge.

Yankees Inject Fresh Blood into Rotation

Allan Winans stepping into the starting rotation represents a bit of a lottery ticket for the Yankees. They’re aware that in his initial eight major league appearances, he posted a 7.20 ERA overall. The team now faces the uncertainty of how the 29-year-old right-hander will perform in a crucial role tasked with protecting the team’s standing.

Allan Winans #72 of the Atlanta Braves

Allan Winans #72 of the Atlanta Braves pitches during the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds in game one of a split double header at Truist Park on July 24, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

Stroman hadn’t been delivering the stability the Yankees desperately need on the mound. His last outing was particularly rough, surrendering multiple runs against the Giants. His early exit from that game fueled fan speculation about a potential injury, which ultimately proved accurate. Stroman carried an ERA north of 11.00 in his limited starts this season.

Stroman Poised for Potential Stronger Return

This isn’t necessarily the end of Marcus Stroman‘s tenure as a starter. There’s a strong possibility his knee inflammation could heal quicker than anticipated. At that point, manager Boone will face a pivotal decision: reinstate Stroman to his former rotation spot, currently occupied by Winans.

If Winans performs well in the interim, Stroman could find himself temporarily on the outside looking in, especially given his previously strong declarations that he wants to be a starter, not a bullpen arm.