The Yankees officially announced the newest addition to their rotation on Wednesday after agreeing to a two-year deal with RHP Marcus Stroman. Just days into the signing, a compelling narrative for the upcoming season is emerging—the mutual embrace between Stroman and the Yankees’ fanbase. It has become evident that the initial hesitations are giving way to a genuine affinity.
The Yankees agreed to a two-year $37 million deal with the 32-year-old right-handed free agent who will slide into their rotation alongside Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes Jr., and—as of now—Clarke Schmidt. It has not yet been determined if the Yankees will seek to acquire another starter ahead of the 2024 season.
The two-time All-Star is coming off what started off looking like a career year in 2023 with the Cubs. He allowed more than three runs in just two of his first 16 starts through June across 101 1/3 IP, finishing the month of June with a 2.17 ERA. His season took a turn in July, and he was placed on the IL on August 2nd with right-hip inflammation. Still, he posted a 3.95 ERA in 2023. In his nine seasons in the majors, Stroman has posted a 3.65 ERA with a record of 77-76 and 1,091 SO in 1,303.2 IP for a total WHIP of 1.253.
Prior to acquiring Stroman, a cloud of skepticism loomed among Yankees fans, rooted in the history of the tension between Stroman and the organization, which likely stemmed from the Yankees' decision not to sign Stroman during his 2019 free agency period. Yet, as the dust of the signing settles, it becomes increasingly apparent that both Stroman and the Yankees faithful are rewriting this narrative, forging a new chapter marked by mutual respect and a shared commitment to the success of the team.
The Long Island native took to his Instagram Story on Tuesday to express his excitement to be a New York Yankee.
New York! I’m ready. Can’t wait to put on THE PINSTRIPES and feel the energy in Yankee Stadium. Honored to put on the uniform. Very Very honored. Will compete to the highest degree for you all. The authentic confidence and swagger I play with is a direct result to growing up in New York culture. Truly can’t wait to feel the buzz and vibe of the crowd on start day. That’s the s—t we dream about as kids. I get chills thinking of these dreams turn to reality! – Marcus Stroman via Instagram
This ignited a wave of positive reactions and fervent support from fans as they reacted via social media.
Then, just hours after the Yankees announced the signing via a Zoom press conference with their newest starting pitcher on Wednesday, he was seen repping the BX at Madison Square Garden.
Marcus Stroman at the Garden!
(via @JakeBrownRadio) pic.twitter.com/2brg6Mf5W3
— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) January 18, 2024
Seemingly undeterred by the historical tensions, Stroman is poised to embark on a fresh beginning. In a symbolic gesture, he has cleared his Instagram history, leaving only a handful of posts—each intricately tied to the Yankees. This intentional act not only signifies a detachment from the past but also serves as a visual commitment to his new chapter in the iconic pinstripes.
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