Stroman as trade rumors swirl: 'I'm built' for Yankee Stadium
Marcus Stroman may be wearing a new uniform before next month's MLB trade deadline passes. And on Monday, the Toronto Blue Jays right-hander addressed the possibility of donning pinstripes.
“Obviously, I’m from New York,” Stroman said prior to the series opener between the Blue Jays and New York Yankees, according to Rob Longley of the Toronto Sun. “I’m a New York boy, so I would think that says everything for itself.”
With Toronto rebuilding and trade rumors swirling, the 28-year-old was candid about his feelings toward playing in the Big Apple.
“New York is like the mecca of the world, right?” Stroman said. “I love excitement. I love bright lights. I love competition.
“I’m built for (Yankee Stadium). Anybody can say whatever, but I’m built for the bright lights and the moment. I’m not scared of it. I’ll never be. I love it.”
This is the second time Stroman has talked openly about his future with the Blue Jays after saying last week that a possible move is out of his control. He reiterated those thoughts on Monday.
“I think that’s kind of set in,” Stroman said when asked if it's “a reality” that he'll be moved. “Obviously, it’s hard to ignore all the rumors and I don’t think I’m at a point where (the Jays) are going to sign me long term.
"I’ve kind of come to terms with it, but it’s not something I’m thinking about daily."
The Yankees have been rumored to be interested in Stroman. However, New York is reportedly only willing to deal Clint Frazier, the team's biggest trade chip, for pitchers controlled beyond 2020. Stroman is under team control for the rest of this season and next year.
The Blue Jays' staff ace is putting together a career-best season with a 3.04 ERA through 100 2/3 innings (17 starts).