Marcus Stroman said he has exchanged ideas with Yankees GM Brian Cashman.
Stroman publicly criticized Cashman in 2019 after the GM said he didn't think the right-hander, who would be in the bullpen in the playoffs, would “make a difference” for the Yankees.
Now, Stroman will don the pinstripes after signing a two-year, $37 million contract that includes a third-year vesting option.
“That was fast, dude. That was fast. We literally laughed about it,” Stroman told reporters on a Zoom call Thursday. “He gave me little short sentences that essentially didn't necessarily come true the way he wanted. He was someone who I always thought was going to be a good competitor, It let me know that he was someone who could handle lighting, someone who thrived under pressure, and that was kind of the ultimate attraction.
“I'm not one to shy away from the limelight or the pressure. I think a lot of players would avoid coming to New York and playing for the Yankees for that reason. Like I said, I don't think that's what it is for me. He’s someone I feel brings out the best in me.”
In an October 2020 tweet, Stroman said that other than Gerrit Cole, “there is no current Yankee pitcher that will be in my league for the next 5-7 years.” Their pitching always breaks at the end. Their lineup and payroll should win them World Series left and right…and yet they're in a drought. lol. “
About a year later, Stroman tweeted, “This tweet will continue to be incredibly outdated.”
The 32-year-old former Met played in 27 games for the Cubs last season, going 10-9 with a 3.95 ERA and earning his second All-Star selection.
He started the first 19 games and posted an ERA of 2.96, but suffered an injury in the second half and his condition deteriorated.
