Marcus Stroman Seriously Interested’ in Moving to New York

Free agent pitcher Marcus Stroman reportedly told the New York Yankees’ front office that he would be “seriously interested” in becoming a member of the team, although the feeling may not be mutual at this point, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

“Free-agent starter Marcus Stroman has informed the Yankees he’s seriously interested in signing with them, but the Yankees have declined to make an offer,” Nightengale wrote.

The right-hander compiled a 3.95 ERA in 27 appearances for the Chicago Cubs in 2023, making 25 starts.

The 32-year-old finished with a record of 10-9, making the second All-Star appearance of his career. While he recorded just 119 strikeouts in 136.2 innings pitched, Stroman is a contact pitcher who excels at causing opposing batters to hit ground balls that typically result in outs.

The New York native nearly played for his hometown team when he was a candidate to be dealt at the 2019 trade deadline. He was eventually acquired by the New York Mets instead, staying with the team through the 2021 season before signing with the Cubs in free agency.

Stroman initially signed a three-year deal with Chicago, although he opted out of his final season on Nov. 4 to give up a $21 million salary for 2024.

The Yankees have been looking for starting pitching help throughout the offseason, attempting to acquire a star to pair alongside 2023 American League Cy Young Award-winner Gerrit Cole at the front of the team’s rotation. New York was a finalist to sign Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto before he ultimately agreed to a 12-year contract worth $325 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Despite a lack of attention from the Yankees, Stroman still has several potential suitors. According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels, Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox have all shown interest in his services.