Marcus Stroman, the 24-year old Toronto Blue Jays right-handed pitcher, will be the starting pitcher at Yankee Stadium on Saturday, September 12, 2015, as the Jays take on the New York Yankees in game three of a four game series. Stroman has been sidelined with a torn ACL in his left knee that occurred during spring training in Dunedin, Florida. Stroman has missed most of the 2015 season and it was doubtful that he would return at all, but thanks to a remarkable recovery over the past five months, Stroman is back with the Jays and is ready to perform. Marcus Stroman has undergone an extensive rehab regime since his surgery, during which he worked out, underwent therapy, and completed his degree at Duke University.
In April, Stroman was put on the 60-day disabled list. He began his rehab assignment in August, pitching in both 40-pitch and 51-pitch simulated games. In early September, Stroman pitched in a game with the Lansing Lugnuts against the Great Lake Loons. He pitched a no-hitter, giving up one walk and striking out seven batters through 4.2 innings. Stroman’s second rehab start came with the Buffalo Bisons against the Pawtucket Red Sox. Through three innings, Stroman issued four walks and gave up four runs on eight hits. In both of his rehabs, Stroman’s performance was good, and he threw his pitchers extremely well. His change-ups have improved and he featured a sharp-looking slider.
Stroman’s Major League Baseball debut came back on May 4, 2014, for The Toronto Blue Jays. Its been a year since Stroman has faced a big league hitter. Marcus Stroman’s record for 2014, 11-6 record, came with a 3.65 ERA, 111 strike outs, and a WHIP of 1.17 in 130.2 innings pitched. Stroman’s first career save came on September 26, 2014. Stroman’s pitching regime consists of four- and two-seam fastballs that top out in the range of approximately 93.5 miles per hour to 94.5 miles per hour. He does possess off speed pitches, including a curve ball that sits at about 83 miles per hour. Stroman’s change-up is 86 miles per hour, his cutter is about 91.5 miles per hour, and his slider is 88 miles per hour.
According to the young pitcher, he has had no trouble with his knee or with pitching while using a fitted brace on his knee. His arm and knee are 100% and he is ready to go. Marcus Stroman replaces Mark Buehrle who returned briefly to Toronto for a cortisone treatment for his shoulder. Buehrle is now back with The Jays and will pitch in Atlanta next week against The Braves. Marcus Stroman is confident, enthusiastic, and determined as he looks forward to a glorious return on Saturday.
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