UPDATE: The New York Yankees have just released right-hander Marcus Stroman, ending his disappointing stint with the team. This sudden move comes just as Luis Gil is set to return from the injured list and make his season debut on Sunday against the Miami Marlins.
Stroman, who was signed to a two-year contract worth $37 million before last season, will see the Yankees absorb the remainder of his $18 million salary. With only 39 innings pitched as of August 1, he falls short of the 140 innings needed for his $18 million option for 2026 to vest, making him a free agent this offseason.
The decision to cut Stroman comes after he recorded a 6.23 ERA in nine starts this season, with his last appearance on Thursday against the Tampa Bay Rays, where he allowed four runs on six hits over five innings. This performance further solidified his position as the odd man out in the Yankees’ rotation, which now includes Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and rookie Cam Schlittler, who has impressed the Yankees’ management.
Stroman’s journey with the Yankees has been tumultuous, highlighted by injuries, including a significant left knee issue that sidelined him for over two months. His early-season potential was overshadowed by the emergence of other pitchers and the recent acquisition of three relievers at the trade deadline, which eliminated any chance of him moving to the bullpen.
As the Yankees prepare for their upcoming game, the focus shifts to Gil’s return and the reshaping of the team’s pitching strategy. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how this move impacts the Yankees’ performance moving forward.
For Stroman, this release marks a critical juncture in his career, as he will now seek a fresh start with another organization. The implications of this decision resonate not just within the Yankees’ locker room but across the league as teams assess their own pitching needs.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.