Once Controversial, Marcus Stroman’s Nostalgic ‘98 Yankees Homage Continues Charming Fans

“My first thought about Marcus is just how great a pitcher he is”; When someone like Gerrit Cole says this, it’s a big deal. Well, apart from being “one of the highest and fiercest competitors” he has proved to be a truly great guy who loves the New York Yankees. Wait what!? Marcus Stroman loves the NYY?

History says that Stro was infamous for ripping apart the Yankees on Twitter, including the GM Brian Cashman. This dates back to a few years ago when Cashman stated that he “didn’t “think he(Stroman) would be a difference-maker.” And the ex-New York Met swore to “never” forget the diss. But his “never” didn’t last forever. 

Words of Appreciation After Burying the Hatchet 

Brian Cashman is a pragmatic man who thinks in terms of 0s and 1s, and a close follower of that mentality is the #0 pitcher. The two buried the hatchet and shook hands over a collaboration for the upcoming season (and more). With that, Stro’s love for the Yankees shot up exponentially. In fact, he even flaunted his adoration for Derek Jeter as he “arrived at camp today reppin’ the Yankees’ 1998 World Series Championship cap.”

The Yanks signed the 32-year-old for the upcoming 2024 season in a two-year contract extending through the 2025 season. This also comes with a conditional player option for the season of 2026. Even before the signing, the two parties were reported to be “seriously interested” showing their mutual inclination. And soon after they put pen to paper, Stroman was full of praises and appreciation for his new team. 

But mind you, this was not a change in attitude particularly due to the signing. There have been multiple instances where the pitcher has stood up for the Yankees. Moreover, Stro is someone who believes, “I’m built for [Yankee Stadium]. Anybody can say whatever, but I’m built for the bright lights and the moment. I’m not scared of it. I’ll never be. I love it.”

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Not to mention the appreciation Marcus Stroman has for the “very personable” GM Brian Cashman. All seemingly good signs for the Yankees Nation! 

Fans Feel Pumped Up As They Heartily Welcome the Fiery Marcus Stroman 

Well, all this put together is gradually putting Yankees nation through a heart transformation. From one that considered Stro a ‘foul-mouthed and negative’ person to respectful and admiring. Who knows, Stroman’s perhaps the missing piece of the rotation puzzle that can propel the Yanks to a greater height. One fan took to Twitter to share that he “Will go to war for this guy”.

Another fan commented on his fiery energy when ‘theyankeereport’ posted a side-by-side of him and Jeter. “How can you not love this guys energy”. Some fans who initially considered him to be the ‘bad guy’ acknowledged the change. 

Stroman comes to the Bronx welcomed by sky-scraping expectations and tall hopes. 

Cheers and more cheers poured in, as Stro “arrived at camp today reppin’ the Yankees’ 1998 World Series Championship cap” and “Stroman locked in let’s Fkn goooooo”.

It is evident that the Yankees fans are pumped up like never before. The man who hones badass tattoos is the one stealing the hearts of fans. It is no secret that the 2x All-Star has “No time for nonsense” and he is going all in for the ring. 

Read More : Marcus Stroman Lauds New York Yankees’ GM, Buries the Hatchet as Crucial Season Nears

As the Spring Training is underway, the energy is felt beyond the camp. Not only are Aaron Boone, Cashman, and the pitchers confident about Stro, he too is! 2024 is expected to be a rollercoaster for the Bronx Bombers. And the best way to sum it all up is, as Stro says, “Time to get to work!”