The New York Yankees could incorporate Marcus Stroman into their defensive strategy for the upcoming season, especially now that Aaron Boone spoke highly of the pitcher after watching him throw.

Aaron Boone #17 of the New York Yankees walks back to the dugout after being ejected in the top of the seventh inning during the game against the Atlanta Braves at Yankee Stadium on June 22, 2024 in New York City. The Yankees defeated the Braves 8-3. © Getty Images
Aaron Boone #17 of the New York Yankees walks back to the dugout after being ejected in the top of the seventh inning during the game against the Atlanta Braves at Yankee Stadium on June 22, 2024 in New York City. The Yankees defeated the Braves 8-3.

Aaron Boone is preparing for the upcoming season by making all possible adjustments to the New York Yankees roster, focusing especially on the pitching staff. Marcus Stroman could be a key piece in the rotation, prompting the manager to address his status after watching him throw 40 pitches in a training session.

According to Boone, he saw Stroman throw multiple pitches and appeared pleased with the results, stating, “You can tell he’s ready to go.” The pitcher looked sharp, with Boone noting that his command and intensity were solid, adding, “Shapes of pitches were solid.”

Boone had high praise for Stroman, which could suggest he is being considered for a starting role rather than a bullpen spot with Yankees—something Stroman himself recently made clear he was against. While Boone acknowledged that the pitcher is “in a good spot,” the final decision has yet to be made.

Notably, Stroman started 29 games during the 2024 season but did not participate in the MLB playoffs due to a poor 5.70 ERA that kept him out of the ALDS. He was given an opportunity for the ALCS but did not pitch as a starter or reliever.

What is Stroman’s salary with the Yankees?

It’s worth noting that Stroman signed a two-year, $37 million contract with the Yankees, with $18.33 million remaining for the 2025 season. His career earnings since 2014 total $108,563,544.

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Stroman’s best years

The Yankees need Stroman at his best for the upcoming season, reminiscent of his 2021 performance with the Mets, where he started 33 games with a 3.02 ERA and 179 innings pitched. Between 2021 and 2024, he maintained an average ERA of 3.69, which is decent for a pitcher with only five playoff starts.