Worried? But Marcus Stroman is all ready to be a starting pitcher for the New York Yankees. Even though he reported two days after the team started their spring training with pitchers and catchers, there is no ill feeling between them. Then why late? Jokingly, he said he wanted to come on Valentine’s Day because of the good vibes.

Reality? The 33-year-old wanted to be ready.  

Remembering his presence in the bullpen for last season’s playoff, Stroman was adamant about not repeating it this time. Back then, the starting pitcher was totally fine with pitching in the bullpen. But in 2025? Nah. 

Yankees Videos post on X revealed why Marcus Stroman was actually late. “Being available to go out there and pitch every five days, is not something I take lightly. And I prepare to the utmost degree. Sometimes I take a few more days,” clarified Stroman to several reporters. But it was not just about getting ready for the spring training.

Stroman made it public that he had a difficult offseason as he lost his home in the LA wildfires. “I had a tough offseason, I was getting settled, had family around. I’ve been donating a lot to the Assistance League in L.A. As far as the fires, a lot of people, especially in the Altadena community, the Palisades, Malibu, I lost my home in Malibu. So, yeah, I’ve just been dealing with a lot,” HDMH shared.

But he didn’t just state his share of pain! Stroman requested people to donate whatever they can to any charitable organization. Well, we hear ya, Stroman!   

But what did the Yankees think of Marcus Stroman’s absence? 

Marcus Stroman might not have made his grand entrance to Yankees spring training on February 11, but don’t expect the sky to fall just yet. Manager Aaron Boone didn’t seem fazed by the delay, admitting he “had an idea” Stroman wouldn’t be on time.  

Boone called the situation “a little awkward,” but assured everyone that he’s been in touch with the veteran pitcher and expects him to show up in a few days. So, while it may look a little odd from the outside, it’s all part of the preseason drama. It’s not like Stroman is holed up on a beach somewhere; the guy lives just down the road from the Yankees’ camp in Florida.  

Plus, per the collective bargaining agreement, he did not have to officially report until February 22. Still, it had raised the question: Could this late arrival throw Stroman off his rhythm heading into the season? Probably not. After all, this is a seasoned pro who knows what it takes to get ready for the grind. And now that he is back and healthy in Spring Training, none of this matters.

But something does. And we cannot help but wonder if Marcus Stroman will be a starter in the New York Yankees. What do YOU think?