There is one goal for the New York Yankees as they enter the 2024 season. Redemption. Recovering from a disappointing 2023 campaign, the Bronx Bombers have toiled hard on bolstering their roster with a focus on pitching. Most notably, the presence of ace Gerrit Cole. But if there was one person behind Cole, whom could the number two spot in the rotation go to?
If you think it’s Carlos Rodon who was signed last offseason to a hefty contract, you might be wrong. Although he was the pitcher ideally suited for this role, his disastrous first season in pinstripes, littered by injuries, cast a serious doubt. Not to mention a staggering 6.85 ERA that has questioned his ability to perform. So, could it be Marcus Stroman?
Marcus Stroman On His Way To Seize the Number 2 Spot
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It is true that Manager Aaron Boone has expressed cautious optimism, speaking of Rodon. Thanks to his unmatched work ethic and dedication to constantly step up his game. However, this uncertainty has opened the door for the newly acquired Marcus Stroman. Now that’s a name that could make a strong case for the number two spot. What’s the story of ‘Stro’?
Late night offseason thoughts when I can’t sleep: Marcus Stroman is a very good and durable starter. He will probably make a significant impact in the Yankees’ rotation and be the No. 2 behind Gerrit Cole. Will also take some of the pressure off Carlos Rodon which is much needed
— Pat Ragazzo (@ragazzoreport) January 18, 2024
Acquired via free agency, the $37 million star has caught the eyes of people throughout spring training. So much so that Boone called his performance “sharp”. Perhaps a deep repertoire and strong command? Well, Stroman’s potential is undeniable. Let the numbers do the talking.
In 10.1 innings, Marcus has allowed 2 earned runs and 3 runs in total, with an ERA of 1.74. He’s also only walked 2 batters of the 38 he’s faced so far and hasn’t yet allowed a home run. Furthermore, he’s just looked good overall, while also mentoring Clarke Schmidt and acclimatizing to the Yankees clubhouse and atmosphere.
In the first half of the 2023 season, he was a formidable force. He boasted a dazzling 2.28 ERA and a WHIP of 1.02. But injuries derailed his season. The 32-year-old acknowledges the challenges of balancing workload. One reason he attributes it to is the grueling schedule which led him up to the London Series in 2023.
Confident that he has learned from this past experience, Stro plans on hitting a bullseye when it comes to a sustainable pitching approach.
Read More: Marcus Stroman Key to Yankees’ World Series Aspirations? New York Native Set to Exceed Expectations
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If Not Stroman, Then Who?
On the flip side, while spring training performances are encouraging, the battle for the number two spot remains open. One must not rule out Rodon’s potential. It remains quite high. However, he would have to prove himself healthy. Despite the uncertainty, it’s possible that his efficiency reaches the top.
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The upcoming weeks will be really crucial as the Yanks determine their final rotation order. Irrespective of who emerges as the number two starter, one point is clear – the Yankees’ pitching staff comes with a stronger foundation than any time in the recent past.
With Cole at the forefront and either Rodon or Stroman providing a strong secondary force, the pitching staff at the Bronx has the ability to achieve redemption in 2024.
