TAMPA — The real thing is still almost six weeks away, but Marcus Stroman got his first taste Monday.
The Yankees’ new right-hander, dressed in full uniform, threw three innings of live batting practice at Steinbrenner Field as he continued to increase his workload in preparation for the regular season.
“It’s exciting to put the pinstripes on and get those feels,” Stroman said. “Having a few people there is really great. But yes, it felt good. It’s just about mastering the mechanics and feeling good at that point.
Marcus Stroman conducts live batting practice during Yankees spring training on February 19, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Stroman was joined by Carlos Rodon as they alternated “ups” during the live session, each throwing about 44 pitches.
Stroman was racking up strikeouts before teammate Austin Wells took him deep for a home run.
“Both looked pretty good at this point in the spring,” manager Aaron Boone said.
Stroman’s next step is to pitch in one of the Yankees’ Grapefruit League games on Sunday.
It will be another first for the Long Island native after signing a two-year, $37 million contract with the Yankees last month.
“I don’t know if I imagined it [growing up], but playing for the New York Yankees as an organization is like the pinnacle of the sport,” Stroman said. “I feel like every player, when they embark on this journey to play at the highest level, feels like everyone wants to be a Yankee at some point.
“It’s kind of like the global phenomenon you watch growing up, even if you’re not from New York. It is an honor. I am very grateful and grateful to be a part of this organization. It’s an honor to wear the pinstripes and I don’t take it lightly. I can’t wait to get to work.
Marcus Stroman (left) gives Aaron Boone a high-five during Yankees spring training on February 19, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Growing up in the Dominican Republic, Juan Soto’s favorite player was former Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano.
Although Soto has since gotten to know Cano and played with him in the 2023 WBC, they have yet to speak in depth about playing for the Yankees.
“He congratulated me and told me how good it was here,” Soto said. “But I haven’t had the opportunity to talk about the organization and how it will take place. [here].»
Boone said all of the Yankees’ position players reported to camp as scheduled Monday and were all healthy.
Rodon gave up his mustache this year, but Gleyber Torres acquired one, although he indicated it might not last until opening day.
“I’m not completely [in] on the mustache,” Boone said with a smile.
2024-02-20 02:08:04
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