In a conference call with Mets’ beat reporters, the Mets introduced Marcus Stroman to New York. The right-handed pitcher, known for his passion and competitiveness on the mound, wasn’t expecting to be traded to the Mets.
“I was definitely shocked…,” Stroman said. “Knowing it was New York was followed by a level of excitement. I’m excited to be a New York Met. I can’t wait to get there and be a part of it.”
Stroman refuted reports about the commotion in the Blue Jays clubhouse after the trade. He said he was frustrated with how the Blue Jays handled the situation, but he wasn’t disappointed about joining the Mets.
“The commotion was in a discussion I had with some of our coaches, some of our higher-ups in an exit meeting,” Stroman said. “I was voicing my opinion. I didn’t like how a couple things were handled in the process. That was it. It had nothing to do with the Mets at all.”
With the Mets sitting six games behind a Wild Card spot, Stroman hopes to provide a spark for the 50-55 Mets. He believes the Mets have a talented roster with Jeff McNeil and Pete Alonso on offense, in addition to pitchers like Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard in the rotation.
124.2 innings pitched, Stroman owns a 2.96 ERA with a 1.22 WHIP and 3.52 FIP this season for Toronto. He made the All-Star game this year for the first time of his six year career.
“My energy is extremely authentic, man,’ Stroman said. “I love playing the game of baseball. I love competing. When I’m between those lines, it’s kind of a different savage, a different demon out there.”
Stroman will wear number seven for the Mets. The last Met to wear that number was former All-Star Jose Reyes.
While Stroman’s first start with the Mets has yet to be scheduled, he is excited to get on the mound for his new team.
“I can’t wait, man,” Stroman said. “I’m ready to throw at any point.”
