There’s no question the New York Yankees are in need of starting pitching support with Luis Severino and Domingo German, two primary starters, fighting through injuries. Throw in the inflammation to James Paxton and CC Sabathia and there’s a serious problem brewing.
While it’s possible GM Brian Cashman elects to whether the storm in a similar fashion to what he did earlier this year when the batting order was out of whack, it’s expected he will make a move. The trade deadline being July 31st gives the Yankees some time to find the right deal, but it’s becoming more clear that Toronto Blue Jays’ Marcus Stroman might be the player of choice.
A pitcher that has struggled in the past but is excelling in the present, Stroman would be a solid addition to a thin rotation for the Bombers. In fact, he already believes he’s capable of handling New York, according to the New York Post:
“I’m built for this,” said the 28-year-old. “Anybody can say whatever, but I’m built for the bright lights. I’m not scared of it. I’ve never been. I take that ball each and every time with the pressure on. I love it.”
“New York is like the mecca of the world,” Stroman said. “I love the excitement, I love the bright lights, I love competition, I love pressure, so I’ve always loved pitching here. Even if I haven’t necessarily pitched fairly well here, I’ve always enjoyed it. … I love the spotlight. The bigger the moment, that’s kind of where I’ve always wanted to be.”
With the Blue Jays holding onto one of the worst records in baseball, it’s possible they could see the value in trading Stroman immediately. His value is as high as it will likely ever be, presenting them with a good opportunity to steal a player like Clint Frazier away from the Yankees.
In fact, they would be silly not to test the waters and see what they can get for the starting pitcher.