Marcus Stroman could use a little more attention. While the New York Yankees’ offensive failure against the Toronto Blue Jays is being highlighted, Stroman’s pitching masterclass has gone under the radar. For 6 innings he had effectively shut down the Jays and was the one person that controlled the extent of defeat the Pinstripes faced. For a team that currently has a doubtful pitching staff Stroman’s good performance could come in as a huge relief.
However, this isn’t a one-off for the pitcher. His first game as a Pinstripes was also encouraging as gave away only 3 unearned runs. But here in the Yankee Stadium Stroman was a different beast. That is a huge surprise for fans as until now his record in this ballpark was nothing out of the ordinary. It seems fans’ love came in as a savior for Stroman.
Marcus Stroman’s home debut brings cheers to the Yankee Nation
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
For six innings the fans witnessed Stroman’s masterclass and hoped that the hitters would come through. During the span of the game, the pitcher struck out six batters and allowed only five baserunners. Out of those only three got a hit, one got a walk and one was an error. That continued the fine form that the 2023 All-Star is currently in.
Marcus Stroman has gone almost even on his cutter-sinker usage, and a big part of their success is how they stay on similar vertical planes while darting in different directions:
Sinker: 3.4" IVB | 11.6" hMov (arm-side)
Cutter: 2.5" IVB | 2.5" hMov (glove-side) pic.twitter.com/EIW5PcI9jE— Ryan Garcia (@RyanGarciaESM) April 6, 2024
The fans loved every moment of Stroman. The star had walked out to the field 40 minutes before the first pitch. Seeing Stroman strolling through the park led to the crowd erupting with cheers. “I didn’t eat at all last night or this morning. I was very anxious to come to the park and was very grateful for the home crowd…To feel the love from the crowd meant everything for me,” Stroman said (via New York Post). Stroman is yet to permit an earned run in the New York Yankees shirt.
So naturally, when Soto finished his pitching spell, he was greeted with loud cheers. The pitcher clapped into his gloves while acknowledging the loud ovation he received. He had put his team in prime position for a win but then all of that positivity vanished by the 7th inning. Blue Jays’ Ernei Clement hit a home run off Caleb Ferguson and the Jays were leading 1-0.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Gradually the opponents tightened their grip over the game. That raised concerns once again about the Yankees’ bullpen. With injuries ravaging their staff, the Bronx Bombers might have an issue on their hand.
The Yankees’ pitching troubles intensify despite HDMH’s great performance
Stroman has certainly won the heart of Aaron Judge who said to MLB.com “It’s impressive; it’s been fun to watch his work, his process, and how he gets prepared for the games.” Perhaps Stroman could be the one who could provide the Yankees with the Key. However, there’s a big worry in the Yankees Clubhouse.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The fact that the Bronx Bombers’ relievers gave away three runs is an issue. But more importantly, it’s the lack of options that is concerning. With the injury to Jonathan Loaisiga, the New York Yankees’ thin bullpen has become even more bare-boned. As a result, concerns are being raised over its long-term health. Could the Bronx Bombers overcome this issue? Only time will tell.
Read more: “I’ve Always Been a Fan…”: Yankees Big-Money $37M Marcus Stroman Endorses Low-Key 5th Starter Pick