Marcus Stroman will start the Yankees’ spring training opener amid trade speculation. Despite missing early camp days, he’s set for an inning of work. Clarke Schmidt has a minor back issue, Luis Gil is ramping up, and Everson Pereira is recovering from surgery. The team is also testing an automated ball-strike system.
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As the New York Yankees gear up for the start of their Grapefruit League schedule, all eyes are on Marcus Stroman, who has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for the team’s spring training opener against the Tampa Bay Rays. The highly anticipated matchup is set to take place at George M. Steinbrenner Field on Friday, marking the first step toward the Yankees’ preparation for the 2025 MLB season.
Stroman’s Offseason Uncertainty
Stroman’s offseason has been anything but smooth, with continuous trade rumors swirling around the veteran right-hander. Despite signing a two-year, $37 million contract with the Yankees this past winter, there have been lingering discussions about his potential trade, leading to uncertainty about his long-term future with the team. Many analysts believe that his presence in the Yankees’ rotation provides valuable depth, particularly given the injury history of several key pitchers.
Missed Early Camp Days But Ready to Pitch
The 32-year-old Stroman missed the initial two days of Yankees’ spring training camp, which raised some eyebrows among fans and media. However, he has since settled into his routine and has been actively participating in bullpen sessions and other team activities. Although he has not yet faced live hitters in camp, Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Stroman is on schedule to pitch one inning in the opener against the Rays.
Yankees’ Rotation Questions
The Yankees enter the 2025 season with some concerns regarding their starting rotation. With injuries impacting key pitchers such as Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón in the past, Stroman’s presence provides a much-needed insurance policy. Boone emphasized that the team is not only evaluating Stroman’s performance but also looking at how other arms in the rotation develop over the coming weeks.
Clarke Schmidt Dealing with Minor Back Issue
In other Yankees injury news, right-hander Clarke Schmidt has been experiencing some minor back discomfort. Boone addressed the issue, assuring fans that it is not considered serious and that Schmidt is expected to continue his buildup toward full readiness for the season. The Yankees are closely monitoring his progress to ensure he remains healthy leading into Opening Day.
Luis Gil’s Continued Development
Another pitcher to watch this spring is Luis Gil, who had an impressive 2024 campaign and was a contender for AL Rookie of the Year. The Yankees are taking a cautious approach with his workload, ensuring that he gradually builds up his innings as he prepares for a more significant role in the rotation.
Everson Pereira’s Recovery from Surgery
On the position player side, outfield prospect Everson Pereira is making steady progress in his recovery from Tommy John surgery. He is expected to see action as a designated hitter in the early part of spring training as the Yankees ease him back into game shape. Pereira remains one of the team’s promising young talents, and his recovery is crucial for the Yankees’ depth in the outfield.
Yankees Testing Automated Ball-Strike System
In a move that could foreshadow future MLB changes, the Yankees have begun testing the automated ball-strike (ABS) system during live batting practice sessions. The league has been experimenting with the technology in the minor leagues and may implement it at the major league level as early as 2026. Boone noted that while the system has its advantages, the team is still getting used to its impact on the game.
Looking Ahead
As the Yankees begin their spring training campaign, all eyes will be on Marcus Stroman and how he performs in his first outing of 2025. While his future with the team remains uncertain due to trade speculation, his presence in the rotation could prove invaluable, especially if injuries become a factor later in the season. The team will also closely monitor the progress of their recovering players and the development of their young talents as they build toward another competitive season.
