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Yankees right-hander Marcus Stroman — the subject of trade rumors for most of the offseason — had been a no-show at spring training workouts the last two days.
On Friday morning, Stroman reported to camp.
SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino reported on Thursday that Stroman had already taken his spring training physical, and was “taking a couple of extra days, but was not holding out or staying away long term.”
Martino added that the “full expectation” was that Stroman would be in camp within the next few days.
Shortly after arriving on Friday, Stroman spoke with reporters, and said multiple times that he would not pitch in relief.
“I won’t pitch in the bullpen,” he said. “I’m a starter.”
Stroman added that being asked to pitch in relief in the postseason is different, but reiterated that he would not consider doing so during the regular season.
The 33-year-old Stroman, who signed a two-year deal last offseason that contained a vesting option for 2026, is seemingly the odd man out in the rotation. Stroman’s option for 2026 will only vest if he throws at least 140 innings this season.
Joining holdovers Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, Carlos Rodon, and Clarke Schmidt on the starting staff will be Max Fried, who inked an eight-year deal earlier this offseason.
The above means Stroman is likely ticketed for another team unless the Yanks suffer an injury in the rotation.
Speaking after Stroman during his usual daily media availability, manager Aaron Boone said the team is stretching Stroman out to be a starter and that any decision on what to do is “a long way away.” Boone added that the team is not likely to use a six-man rotation.
Last year, during his first season in the Bronx, Stroman had a 4.31 ERA (4.62 FIP) and 1.46 WHIP while striking out 113 batters in 154.2 innings over 30 games (29 starts).
Stroman did not pitch during the Yankees’ run to the World Series. He was on the ALCS roster (but didn’t appear in a game), and was left off the roster for the ALDS and World Series.
“I’m good wherever I may be,” Stroman said about his future. “I love everybody in this clubhouse. Everybody knows that. You can ask my teammates the relationship I have with them.”