The Texas Rangers will likely be seeking to bolster their pitching rotation. The team should consider making a trade for star pitcher Marcus Stroman of the Chicago Cubs. Stroman, in the last year of his player option contract, has been putting up phenomenal numbers this season and has expressed his desire for a contract extension with his current team. With the recent loss of Jacob deGrom due to injury, the Rangers need to view Stroman as an ideal replacement to strengthen their pitching staff.
Stroman’s Strong Year for the Cubs
Marcus Stroman has been nothing short of exceptional this season. Through 14 starts, he has amassed a 7-4 win-loss record, boasting an impressive win percentage of .636. Stroman’s ERA stands at a remarkable 2.42, highlighting his ability to keep opposing hitters at bay consistently. With 85 2/3 innings pitched, he has allowed only 58 hits and 24 runs, resulting in an outstanding WHIP of 1.039. Stroman has also been effective at limiting walks, with just 31 issued, and has struck out 73 batters, showcasing his ability to generate swings and misses.
12 quality starts in 14 outings for Marcus Stroman this season ?? @STR0 pic.twitter.com/CK1uewzl4h
— Cubs Zone ™️ (@CubsZone) June 10, 2023
Apart from his stellar performance on the mound, Stroman has displayed versatility and effectiveness in various aspects of the game. He has pitched effectively deep into games, completing one of his starts this season. This ability to go deep into games not only saves the bullpen but also allows the team to be more competitive in tight matchups. Stroman has also proven to be an efficient fielder, committing zero errors and showing agility and athleticism on the mound.
Marcus Stroman Could Be a Valuable Asset for the Rangers
The end of Jacob deGrom’s season due to a UCL tear and subsequent Tommy John surgery has left a significant void and lack of depth in the Rangers’ rotation. Stroman’s impressive performance and potential contract extension with the Cubs make him an appealing target for the Rangers. Moreover, his ability to consistently provide quality starts and pitch deep into games would greatly benefit a team needing stability and reliability on the mound.
While the details of the potential trade between the Rangers and the Cubs are merely a suggestion, it is clear that Stroman would greatly help the Rangers’ pitching staff. The Cubs, recognizing Stroman’s exceptional performance, might be motivated to explore trade options if they cannot reach a contract extension agreement. Stroman has taken to Twitter stating the front office is stalling negotiations. If he remains upset at the extension process, it could move things closer to a trade.
The Rangers, on the other hand, would be able to acquire a top-tier pitcher who could fill the void left by deGrom’s absence and contribute to the team’s success. Marcus Stroman’s stellar performance this year and his desire for a new contract with the Chicago Cubs have put him on the radar of several teams, including Texas. The Rangers must see Stroman as an ideal addition to bolster their pitching rotation. His impressive numbers, versatility, and ability to pitch deep into games make him a highly sought-after asset. With the trade deadline six weeks away, it will be interesting to see if the Texas Rangers can secure Marcus Stroman’s services and add a significant boost to their staff.
Photo Credit: D. Ross Cameron-USA TODAY Sports
Players Mentioned: Marcus Stroman, Jacob deGrom
