Recently, the New York Yankees have faced challenges with their starting pitching, primarily due to injuries, the latest being Ryan Yarbrough, who is currently sidelined with a right oblique strain. However, there is some good news on the horizon as Marcus Stroman is set to return to the rotation on Sunday against the Athletics. Stroman had been on the injured list since mid-April due to left knee inflammation but has just wrapped up a minor-league rehab assignment where he made three starts.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone has expressed optimism about Stroman’s return, especially after the pitcher completed a side session on Friday without complications. “He’s mostly built up and he feels ready to go,” Boone noted. The team is hopeful that Stroman can provide a solid performance when he takes the mound on Sunday.
Despite this optimism, Stroman’s recent rehab statistics may raise some concerns. He recorded a 6.97 ERA in his rehab assignment, and in his final start for Double-A Somerset, he allowed five runs and ten hits in just 3 2/3 innings. This lack of success, combined with his earlier struggles this season—a staggering 11.57 ERA—has led some fans and analysts to question what kind of impact he might have upon his return.
Nevertheless, Stroman remains confident about his readiness, stating that he feels good and is eager to pitch at the major league level again. He noted that the intensity of competing in the majors might help improve his performance, which could signify a promising turnaround for the veteran pitcher.
Moreover, with this activation of Stroman, the Yankees have opted to send Allan Winans back to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Winans was recently called up and had a spot start on Monday but struggled against the Cincinnati Reds.
As the Yankees aim to regain momentum in a challenging season, Stroman’s return could be a crucial boost for their pitching staff, especially as they navigate through injury-related challenges. The urgency he feels could translate into a stronger performance that the Yankees desperately need as they look to improve their standing.