The New York Yankees are riding high after an offseason filled with marquee signings, but with their newfound strength comes the challenge of balancing their roster and budget. Amid this backdrop, a trade rumor involving Marcus Stroman and the Toronto Blue Jays has surfaced, potentially marking a pivotal moment for both teams as they prepare for the 2025 MLB season.
Yankees’ Offseason Moves Create an Overcrowded Rotation
The Yankees’ acquisition of Max Fried, along with former MVPs Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt, has elevated their roster to championship contention. However, these blockbuster signings come at a cost.
Marcus Stroman, who is set to earn over $18 million in 2025, may find himself on the trade block. With six strong starting pitchers vying for five rotation spots, unloading Stroman could provide financial relief and roster clarity for the Yankees.
Blue Jays’ Offseason Struggles and Desperation
In stark contrast, the Toronto Blue Jays have endured a quiet and frustrating offseason. Despite being linked to Juan Soto, the Blue Jays never had a realistic chance to land the superstar, leaving fans and analysts questioning GM Ross Atkins’ strategy.
With Spring Training fast approaching and the American League East growing more competitive, the Blue Jays are under immense pressure to make impactful moves. The Orioles, Red Sox, and Yankees have all made significant upgrades, leaving Toronto lagging behind.
The Case for Stroman’s Return to Toronto
Acquiring Marcus Stroman could offer the Blue Jays a short-term boost to their rotation, which already features Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, and Chris Bassitt. While Stroman is no longer the ace he once was during his 2014-2019 stint with Toronto, his experience and familiarity with the organization might make him a valuable depth piece.
Aaliyan Mohammed of The Sporting News suggests that Stroman could serve as a “nice complement” to the Blue Jays’ existing hurlers. However, his 4.31 ERA across 30 games in 2024 and hefty salary make this a risky proposition.
Potential Risks and Rewards
- For the Yankees: Trading Stroman would free up significant payroll and create financial flexibility, allowing them to address other areas of need or add midseason reinforcements.
- For the Blue Jays: While Stroman could help solidify their rotation, his current form and high salary may not justify the cost, especially if it hinders the team’s ability to pursue other upgrades.
Conclusion
This potential trade highlights the contrasting trajectories of two AL East rivals. The Yankees are fine-tuning a championship-caliber roster, while the Blue Jays are scrambling to stay competitive in a division filled with powerhouses.
Whether or not Ross Atkins pulls the trigger on a Stroman reunion remains to be seen, but the move would undoubtedly reflect the Blue Jays’ desperation to keep pace in an increasingly tough landscape.