In a developing storyline that highlights the intersection of performance and payroll management, the New York Yankees have intensified efforts to move right-handed pitcher Marcus Stroman before the 2025 season begins. Following an inconsistent 2024 campaign that saw Stroman excluded from postseason action, the Yankees appear ready to absorb a portion of his substantial salary to facilitate a trade. The Atlanta Braves have emerged as a particularly intriguing destination among potential suitors, given their depleted rotation and championship aspirations.

Stroman’s rocky stint in pinstripes

The trajectory of Marcus Stroman’s Yankees tenure illustrates the unpredictable nature of free-agent acquisitions. After joining the club on a two-year, $37 million contract prior to the 2024 season, Stroman arrived with credentials that suggested stability and reliability. Fresh off an All-Star campaign with the Chicago Cubs that yielded a 3.95 ERA, expectations ran high for the veteran right-hander.

Initial returns appeared promising, as Stroman maintained a commendable 3.51 ERA through the season’s first half. However, the wheels began to wobble post-All-Star break, with his performance deteriorating to a troubling 5.98 ERA across 49 2/3 innings. This decline culminated in his omission from the Yankees’ postseason roster, a decisive statement about his diminished standing within the organization.

Adding complexity to the situation is Stroman’s contract structure, which includes a vesting option for 2026 that activates if he reaches 140 innings in 2025. This provision, which would trigger an additional $18.5 million obligation, has increased the urgency to find a trade partner.

Yankees’ trade push

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New York’s front office has demonstrated unusual transparency in their willingness to facilitate a deal by covering a significant portion of Stroman’s remaining salary. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that the Yankees would consider absorbing a substantial percentage of the $18.5 million owed to Stroman for 2025.

This financial flexibility stems from the organization’s desire to reallocate resources toward other roster needs, particularly bullpen reinforcement and the acquisition of left-handed hitting talent. Despite an active offseason that brought in Max Fried, Paul Goldschmidt, and Devin Williams, Stroman’s contract continues to restrict their maneuverability in addressing remaining gaps.

Atlanta Braves: A logical destination

The emergence of Atlanta as a potential landing spot for Stroman reflects the natural alignment of organizational needs. Following the free-agent departures of Max Fried and Charlie Morton, the Braves face significant rotation uncertainty beyond Chris Sale, Reynaldo Lopez, and Spencer Schwellenbach. Spencer Strider is out of the rotation for at least the starting four weeks. This void creates an opportunity for a veteran presence to stabilize their starting staff.

Industry analyst Austin Owens of Fansided emphasized the potential fit, noting, “If the Yankees are willing to take on a large amount of Stroman’s salary, [Braves GM] Alex Anthopoulos should make a deal to bring him to Atlanta.” The veteran pitcher’s durability and experience could prove invaluable for a Braves team eyeing another deep postseason run.

However, skepticism exists regarding the feasibility of such a deal. Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer points out that while the teams appear compatible on paper, “the trouble is, they just don’t line up well as trading partners.” Yet, the Yankees’ willingness to absorb salary might create enough flexibility to bridge this gap.

The Yankees-Braves trade scenario

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A potential framework for a Stroman deal with Atlanta could address both teams’ objectives while balancing financial considerations:

Yankees receive: Ozzie Albies (2B) and Dylan Lee (LHP)

A switch-hitting All-Star second baseman with elite speed, solid defense, and consistent offensive production, Albies’ contract is team-friendly and extends through at least 2027 with club options. A battle-tested left-handed reliever capable of handling high-leverage situations. Lee would immediately strengthen the Yankees’ bullpen depth.

Braves receive: Marcus Stroman (RHP) and Oswald Peraza (SS/3B)

Stroman is a seasoned starter to fill their rotation void, with New York covering $3 million of his 2025 salary. Peraza is a promising infield player offering defensive excellence and offensive upside, controllable through 2029.

Strategic rationale for both teams

Yankees’ perspective:

With DJ LeMahieu aging and Gleyber Torres exiting, Albies fills a key middle infield need, immediately bolstering the Yankees’ championship aspirations. His ability to hit from both sides of the plate provides the Yankees with a much-needed switch-hitting presence in the lineup. His speed and defensive prowess at second base enhance both the Yankees’ offense and infield defense.

Lee brings a trusted left-handed option for late innings, complementing the Yankees’ right-heavy bullpen.

Braves’ perspective:

Stroman offers a much-needed veteran presence and innings-eating capability. The Braves struggled with pitching last season and Strider may not return until May 2025. Atlanta is also in the market for a shortstop, and Peraza provides valuable defensive versatility and long-term control suitable for their need.

The Yankees’ willingness to cover salary reduces financial exposure while adding proven talent.

Challenges and outlook

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The complexity of executing such a trade shouldn’t be understated. The Yankees must carefully evaluate the balance between salary relief and prospect return, while the Braves need assurance that Stroman can rediscover his early 2024 form.

For Stroman personally, relocating to Atlanta might offer the fresh start needed to rejuvenate his career. At 33, he retains the physical tools and experience to contribute meaningfully, particularly within a structured environment like the Braves organization.

The potential trade of Marcus Stroman represents a critical piece in the Yankees’ ongoing roster reconstruction. While his tenure in New York hasn’t met expectations, Stroman’s track record suggests potential value for a team willing to assume calculated risk. The Braves, with their rotation needs and competitive window, present an optimal landing spot.

The resolution of this situation depends largely on the Yankees’ salary flexibility and Atlanta’s confidence in Stroman’s ability to bounce back. As spring training approaches, this developing trade narrative remains one of baseball’s most compelling storylines. Whether Stroman remains in pinstripes or heads south to Atlanta, the outcome will significantly impact both franchises’ championship aspirations in 2025.