The time is nearing for Marcus Stroman, who will soon pitch in Spring Training with the New York Yankees in a sort of test to see how ready he is to be a starter. It’s worth noting that weeks ago, Marcus Stroman made it clear that he didn’t want to be a reliever and that his sole focus is as a starter.

Stroman will start Friday’s game against the Rays at Steinbrenner Field, manager Aaron Boone said Wednesday, putting the potential odd man out of the Yankees’ rotation right into the spotlight. The veteran right-hander has not faced hitters since arriving at camp on Friday, but had done so beforehand and will just throw one inning on Friday.

The New York Yankees would love to find a taker for Marcus Stroman and at least some of his hefty contract, and they're determined to give him every chance to show off his worth during spring training.

Here are five New York Yankees pitchers and hitters to keep an eye on as spring training games begin around the country.

The New York Yankees have created an awkward situation by failing to trade Marcus Stroman before spring training while openly shopping him in the winter. They could send him to the suddenly needy Mets.

Even after coming off a tough season in the minors, Spencer Jones knows how to start big league camp with a bang. Access the Yankees beat like never before Join Post Sports+ for exciting subscriber-only features,