The New York Yankees have made a major decision to part ways with a high-profile All-Star player following troubling allegations of misconduct. The player, who signed a multi-million dollar contract, has been dismissed from the team in the wake of serious concerns surrounding his behavior.
The Yankees have climbed to a three-game lead in the American League East, thanks to a three-game winning streak and a slump by the Orioles. With a possible deep playoff run ahead, the team faces a significant challenge: solidifying their pitching rotation for the postseason.
While the Yankees have a deep pool of potential starters, each comes with a question mark that could complicate their postseason plans. Even their ace, Gerrit Cole, missed most of the season due to an arm injury. Although he’s expected to start Game 1, his health remains a concern.
The rest of the rotation remains uncertain. Nestor Cortes, the team’s Opening Day starter, recently moved to a long-relief role, and now the Yankees have announced that Marcus Stroman will be shifted to the bullpen instead of making his next scheduled start.
Unlike Cortes, who was displeased with the move, Stroman had a different reaction, showing his commitment to the team.
Stroman’s Message to Manager Aaron Boone
According to MLB.com’s Yankees beat writer Bryan Hoch, manager Aaron Boone shared Stroman’s reaction to his demotion:
“Stro has been great for us, both on and off the field. He’s all about the team and the guys in the clubhouse. His message to me was simple: ‘Whatever you need, I’m ready.’ He just wants to be part of a winning team.”
Stroman hasn’t had a poor season by any means. He has made 28 starts, third-most on the team, and holds a 10-8 record with a 4.08 ERA. While these numbers are close to what he achieved last season—when he was an All-Star for the Cubs before signing a two-year, $37 million contract with the Yankees—his performance has fluctuated.
After a strong start to the season, going 6-2 with a 2.82 ERA in his first 14 starts, Stroman’s numbers have dipped, going 4-6 with a 5.50 ERA since.
Boone emphasized that Stroman’s bullpen role might not be permanent and he could still return as a playoff starter.
“I’ll try to put him in the best position,” Boone told the New York Post. “Nothing is set in stone. With the upcoming off day, we’re looking to go five [starters] for at least this turn and maybe the next. We’ll see.”
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