New Jersey isn’t just about scenic beauty and bustling towns; it’s also a vibrant hub for top-tier sports, and nowhere is that more evident than at TD Bank Ballpark, home of the Somerset Patriots. As the Double-A affiliate of the legendary New York Yankees, the Patriots provide a thrilling opportunity for Garden State residents to witness future baseball stars – and sometimes, even current MLB giants – on their journey.
The Somerset Patriots have become a crucial stop on the road to the Bronx for many Yankees players, offering a vital stage for development and, importantly, for rehabilitation. When a big-league star needs to shake off the rust or get back into game shape after an injury, there’s a strong chance you’ll find them honing their skills right here in Bridgewater.
Want to experience the excitement of Minor League Baseball in New Jersey and follow the path of rising stars? Explore our dedicated section on the Somerset Patriots!
Marcus Stroman’s Road to Recovery Runs Through Somerset
A prime example of this dynamic came into full view recently with the highly anticipated return of New York Yankees right-hander Marcus Stroman. Sidelined for two-and-a-half months due to left knee inflammation, Stroman’s path back to the Yankees’ starting rotation included vital rehab starts with our very own Somerset Patriots.
While rehab outings are primarily about building endurance and regaining feel, not necessarily about dominant statistics, Stroman’s time with the Patriots was a critical step. He took the mound, showcasing his distinctive pitching style and mental fortitude. Even after a challenging outing for Double-A Somerset where he allowed a few runs, his focus remained clear: getting his knee right and preparing to rejoin the big-league club.
Stroman’s dedication to his craft is legendary. A Gold Glove winner and two-time All-Star, he’s known for his fierce competitiveness and unique pre-game routines – including lighting a scented candle in his locker, often English lavender, and immersing himself in philosophical texts like Marcus Aurelius’s “Meditations.” This commitment to both physical and mental preparedness is what allows athletes of his caliber to overcome significant setbacks.
His return to the Yankees on Sunday against the Oakland Athletics was a testament to that grit. After his stint with the Patriots, Stroman rejoined his teammates, bringing his signature fire and presence to the clubhouse. On the mound, he delivered a strong performance, allowing just one run and three hits over five innings in a decisive 12-5 victory.
“It’s not the same being on the side. You feel like you’re left out,” Stroman reflected, highlighting the athlete’s desire to be back in the heat of competition. “So definitely good to be back with the boys.”
Even a scare in the second inning, when a 97.2 mph line drive struck him on the right hamstring, couldn’t deter him. “It crushed me. Pretty firm… It hurt a lot,” he admitted, but quickly added, “Adrenaline is a great drug, so I won’t feel it until tomorrow.” This kind of resilience is what fans admire, and it was honed through the rigorous process of rehabilitation, including his time perfecting his pitches at TD Bank Ballpark.
Stroman’s return is especially crucial for the Yankees, who are navigating a rotation challenged by key injuries to ace Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil, and Ryan Yarbrough. His ability to pitch effectively with his unique repertoire – a mix of sinkers, cutters, and various breaking balls – provides much-needed stability and unpredictability, as lauded by Yankees manager Aaron Boone.
The presence of players like Marcus Stroman underscores the integral role the Somerset Patriots play in the larger baseball ecosystem. They’re not just a local team; they’re an essential part of the journey for baseball’s elite, offering fans in New Jersey a unique glimpse into the resilience, dedication, and talent required to compete at the highest level. Catch a game at TD Bank Ballpark, and you might just witness the next big moment in a major league career unfolding right before your eyes!
