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Yankees’ $37 Million Pitcher Marcus Stroman Faces Uncertain Return as Rotation Crisis Grows

MLB access_alarms2025-05-12 22:17:57 visibility9 text_decrease title text_increase

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Injury Woes Mount for Struggling Right-Hander

The New York Yankees' 2025 season has taken another hit with Marcus Stroman's prolonged absence due to left knee iNFLammation. The 34-year-old pitcher hasn't appeared in a game since April 11 after three disastrous starts that saw his ERA balloon to 11.57.

Manager Aaron Boone confirmed Stroman experienced renewed discomfort during a recent practice session in Tampa. "We've tried multiple treatments, but the recovery keeps stalling," Boone stated. "His mechanics are compromised when he can't plant properly - it's like dominoes falling in a pitching motion."

Yankees' $37M Starter Marcus Stroman Faces Indefinite Layoff, Deepening Rotation Crisis

Contract Concerns and Rotation Breakdown

High-Risk Deal Backfires

Stroman's $37 million two-year contract now appears problematic. The deal includes a conditional $16 million option for 2026 requiring 140 innings pitched this season - a target becoming increasingly unlikely.

Domino Effect in Pitching Staff

With ace Gerrit Cole recovering from Tommy John surgery and rising star Luis Gil sidelined by a lat injury, the Yankees' rotation ranks 23rd in MLB with a 4.81 ERA. Recent call-ups like Allan Winans remain unproven, while veteran Carlos Carrasco was cut after posting a 6.75 ERA.

Playoff Implications and Front Office Decisions

Despite holding an 8-7 record and trailing Toronto by half a game, the Yankees' playoff odds have dropped to 80% according to latest projections. The team faces tough choices:

Promote top prospect Jasson Dominguez
Trade for established starters like Lucas Giolito
Absorb Stroman's potential $16 million dead money in 2026

Long-Term Questions for Stroman

The 2015 ACL surgery survivor's fastball velocity has dropped to a career-low 91.2 mph. Combined with his chronic knee issues, this raises concerns about his ability to remain effective long-term. The Yankees' $290 million payroll adds pressure to make cost-effective roster moves.

Key Statistics

11.57 ERA in 2025 starts
4.31 ERA in 154.2 innings during 2024
91.2 mph average fastball velocity (career low)

As the Yankees prepare for their crucial series against Seattle, Boone remained cautious: "We're keeping all options open, but must focus on available players first." The team's ability to address its pitching crisis could determine its postseason fate.