Signing Marcus Stroman could be a disaster for the Yankees

On paper, Marcus Stroman is everything the New York Yankees need.

The Yankees signed Stroman on Thursday to a two-year, $37 million deal. The contract also includes a player option for 2026 worth $18 million, vesting if he pitches 140 innings in 2025. He gives the Yankees another steady arm in the rotation, slotting behind Gerrit Cole to provide stability.

It is easy to see why the Yankees had an interest in Stroman. He has typically taken the ball every fifth day, providing six solid innings every time out. His 56.6% ground ball rate fits perfectly in the home run haven known as Yankee Stadium. The 32-year-old also adds a bit of fire to a team that can seem robotic at times, joining the younger players to inject life into the roster.

That fire can also get Stroman in trouble. He is outspoken on social media, occasionally controversial and with a liberal use of the block function. Stroman had also ripped the Yankees' pitching staff, something that did not endear him to the fan base, in response to general manager Brian Cashman's earlier thoughts that he "was not a difference-maker."

The concerns extend to the diamond as well. Stroman has not fared well in Yankee Stadium, posting a 6.06 ERA and a 1.635 WHiP in his new home. Both marks are his worst showing at any ballpark in which he has made more than two appearances. While his struggles there may have something to do with facing the Yankees, it is still a cause for concern.

Ultimately, signing Stroman was a move the Yankees had to make. He was one of the better pitchers available in free agency and the Yankees had to address their rotation. The acquisition of Juan Soto made it clear that they are all in this season, something they cannot be with the rotation they had. 

There is a chance that adding Stroman could be a disaster. But the Yankees needed him. Sometimes, though, one has to be careful about what they wish for.