The New York Yankees face questioning from fans and analysts after placing pitcher Marcus Stroman on the injured list on Saturday, April 12, 2025, just one day after allowing five runs and failing to complete an inning in a 9-1 loss to the San Francisco Giants.
Although the team reported that Stroman has a left knee injury and underwent medical tests, baseball fans were quick to suggest that the move was for strategic rather than medical reasons, reviving the debate over the notorious “phantom injury list.
What is the “ghost list”?
The term “phantom roster” is used colloquially to describe a practice in which teams place players on the injured list with minor or vague conditions.
This is in order to free up roster space without exposing the player to waivers.
This maneuver also gives the player a mental or physical break during a negative streak, leaving no evidence of a penalty.
The New York Yankees face questions from fans and analysts
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Although it is not officially recognized by MLB, its use contradicts the ethical and medical guidelines of the regulations.
In February 2024, former New York Mets general manager Billy Eppler was suspended for fabricating injuries during 2022 and 2023.
The Mets used the roster 28 times in 2022 and 25 times in 2023, numbers that raised suspicions.
No formal investigation
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To date, MLB has not announced an investigation into the New York Yankees or Stroman’s reported injury.
However, media pressure is increasing.
Some fans speculate that the team is looking to limit the pitcher’s appearances to prevent him from triggering his $18 million player option for 2026, which kicks in if he reaches 140 innings pitched.
Stroman did not offer any statements to the press after his departure on Friday or during the weekend.
The case is reminiscent of that of pitcher Ross Stripling, who admitted to being on a “phantom roster” with the Giants in 2023.
Stripling subsequently apologized, and was traded to the Athletics in February 2024.
As teams explore loopholes to better manage their rosters, there are growing calls for greater transparency and regulation in the use of the injured list.
This New York Yankees case could set a precedent if the league decides to intervene.
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