The New York Yankees are reportedly eyeing a trade that would send Marcus Stroman and a top prospect to the San Diego Padres in exchange for All-Star reliever Robert Suarez. The proposed three-player deal, put forward by Patrick McAvoy of SportingNews, aims to strengthen the Yankees’ bullpen while giving the Padres a solid starting pitcher and a highly-regarded prospect.
Under the proposed trade, the Yankees would receive Robert Suarez, a dominant right-handed reliever who made a major impact in 2024. Suarez was named an All-Star after posting a 2.77 ERA and 36 saves across 65 games, helping solidify his place as one of the league’s top closers. With an opt-out after 2025, Suarez could be a key piece for the Yankees’ bullpen, potentially serving as a setup man or even a closer alongside Devin Williams.
In return, the Padres would acquire Stroman, who is in the final year of his $37 million contract. Although Stroman was left off the Yankees’ playoff roster, he has been a reliable starter, posting a 4.32 ERA with a 10-9 record in 2024. Additionally, the Padres would receive 19-year-old outfielder Brando Mayea, who impressed in rookie ball with a .281 batting average and 9 RBIs in 35 games, as well as $5 million in cash to help offset Stroman’s salary.
This trade would provide a significant upgrade to the Yankees’ bullpen, which has become a focal point of their offseason strategy. Analyst McAvoy notes that adding Suarez would give New York an even stronger one-two punch at the back of the bullpen, complementing Williams. The Yankees are reportedly looking to bolster their relief options, especially after losing former reliever Tommy Kahnle to the Detroit Tigers.
Stroman’s name has been circulating in trade rumors all offseason, further fueled by his recent decision to unfollow the Yankees on Instagram. MLB insider Robert Murray also noted that a Stroman trade is likely, with the Yankees actively looking to deal the right-hander.
With this proposed trade, the Yankees could position themselves as strong contenders for the 2025 season, adding another elite arm to their bullpen while offloading Stroman’s contract. The Padres, in turn, would gain a solid starter and a promising prospect as they continue to shape their roster for the future.
