New York Yankees always aim high in their pursuit of championships. However, their current offseason includes a big problem tied to pitcher Marcus Stroman.

Because of his $18 million vesting option for 2026, trading him has become a serious challenge.

This vesting option activates if Stroman pitches 140 innings in the 2025 season.

So, any team trading for him must accept the possibility of paying him $18M for another year.

Clearly, this financial risk has scared off potential trade partners.

Why Stroman’s Contract Is So Complicated

When you look closer, the complication surrounding Marcus Stroman’s contract isn’t solely about his $18.3M salary for 2025.

The bigger issue is his vesting option, which makes it harder to predict the total cost of keeping him.

If he pitches well enough to reach the 140-inning mark in 2025, the next team could be stuck with him in 2026.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a problem if Stroman were an elite pitcher.

But his 2024 numbers—10 wins, 9 losses, and a 4.31 ERA over 154.2 innings—make him solid, not spectacular.

Still, Stroman’s reliability adds some value, though not enough to outweigh the risks of his contract.

Balancing Payroll and Ambition

Right now, the Yankees are working hard to improve their team while keeping their budget in check.

They’ve made some big moves, including signing lefty Max Fried and slugger Paul Goldschmidt.

They also traded for closer Devin Williams and outfielder Cody Bellinger and re-signed ace Gerrit Cole, one of the highest-paid MLB players.

But even with these upgrades, their infield has a noticeable gap after losing Gleyber Torres.

So, the Yankees are considering several options, including free agent Jorge Polanco.

Polanco, who previously signed a five-year, $25.7M deal with the Seattle Mariners, could be a good fit.

Meanwhile, the Yankees are also linked to Luis Arráez, a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger.

Arráez’s impressive career numbers—a .323 batting average and a .372 on-base percentage—make him an ideal addition.

With his ability to set up opportunities for Aaron Judge, Arráez would bring balance to their lineup.

The Marcus Stroman-Luis Arráez Trade Rumor

To solve both teams’ needs, some rumors suggest a trade between the Yankees and Padres involving Stroman and Arráez.

For the Yankees, they would get a consistent hitter to strengthen their infield.

For the Padres, Stroman could help fix their pitching rotation, which badly needs more depth.

That being said, the Padres might prefer younger prospects in the deal instead of just Stroman.

One name mentioned is Will Warren, the Yankees’ seventh-ranked prospect.

Although Warren struggled in his brief MLB stint—posting a 10.32 ERA in five starts—his upside could make him appealing to San Diego.

The Yankees’ Case for Keeping Stroman

If a trade doesn’t materialize, the Yankees could consider keeping Stroman for depth.

Injuries are an inevitable part of a long season, and Stroman’s durability could prove valuable.

While his 2024 ERA of 4.31 wasn’t elite, he still managed 154.2 innings.

With a rotation featuring Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Max Fried, Luis Gil, and Clarke Schmidt, Stroman might not seem essential.

Nonetheless, having a seasoned pitcher as insurance could pay dividends if injuries strike or younger arms falter.

Another option for the Yankees is to allow Stroman to rebuild his value during the first half of the 2025 season.

If he performs well, they could explore trading him at the deadline, when teams desperate for pitching depth might be more willing to overlook his contract complications.

Yankees’ Ambitions for 2025

The Yankees are under a lot of pressure after losing the 2024 World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Their 94-68 record and AL Pennant win were great, but falling short has only raised expectations.

Their aggressive offseason moves show they’re focused on winning in 2025.

If they can trade Stroman, it could give them the financial space to make one more important move.

Whether that move is for Luis Arráez or someone else, it could be the final piece to help them win the World Series.

What Will the Yankees Do?

The Yankees’ dilemma with Marcus Stroman is a microcosm of the challenges faced by a team that must balance win-now ambitions with long-term planning.

Trading him could solve some financial problems and allow them to strengthen their infield.

But keeping him might also work if injuries hit or if they need a trade piece later in the season.

What do you think?

Should the Yankees trade Stroman, or is it smarter to hold onto him?

The NFL has showcased some unforgettable games over the decades, but a few stand out for their sheer domination.

This article dives into the biggest blowouts in NFL history, detailing record-breaking scores, unprecedented margins of victory, and standout performances that have left their mark on American football.

Memorable NFL Blowouts in the Super Bowl Era

The NFL has seen some exciting games, where competition seemed a distant thought. Here are some of the most notable blowouts:

• Chiefs 56, Broncos 10 (AFL Era): A significant win for the Chiefs, showcasing Bert Coan’s exceptional performance with three rushing touchdowns and a receiving TD.
• Cowboys 59, Lions 13 (1968): Post-Ice Bowl, the Cowboys demonstrated offensive prowess, with notable contributions from Bob Hayes, Dan Reeves, and Chuck Howley.
• Chiefs 56, Falcons 10 (2004): A memorable game where Priest Holmes and Derrick Blaylock achieved a record eight rushing TDs.
• Patriots 56, Bills 10 (2007): A testament to the Patriots’ strength, with Tom Brady — the greatest NFL quarterback — and Randy Moss setting single-season records.
• Oilers 47, Bears 0 (1977): An unusual game where the losing team, the Bears, made it to the playoffs, while the Oilers did not.

Historic Blowouts & How They Played Out

• Jets 47, Rams 0 (2008): The biggest win in Jets history, marked by a dominant performance against the Rams.
• Packers 55, Browns 7 (1967): A show of strength by the Packers, featuring notable performances from Donny Anderson and Travis Williams.
• Vikings 51, Browns 3 (1969): A display of the Vikings’ defensive might, limiting Hall of Famer Leroy Kelly to 24 rushing yards.
• 49ers 48, Rams 0 (1987): A remarkable game for the 49ers, leading them into the playoffs with the top-ranked offense and defense.
• Jaguars 48, Browns 0 (2000): Highlighting the Jaguars’ dominance, with Fred Taylor leading the way with 181 yards and three TDs.

Most Unforgettable Games in the History of the NFL

• Packers 55, Titans 7 (2012): The Packers’ significant victory during their playoff streak, with Aaron Rodgers delivering an exceptional performance.
• Cowboys 56, Eagles 7 (1966): A record-setting game for the Cowboys, showcasing Don Meredith’s remarkable skills.
• Chiefs 49, Cardinals 0 (2002): An offensive showcase by the Chiefs, with standout performances from Priest Holmes and Dante Hall.
• Packers 52, Saints 3 (2005): Despite a challenging season, the Packers displayed their classic form against the Saints.
• Ravens 59, Dolphins 10 (2019): A game that marked Lamar Jackson’s rise as a formidable quarterback, leading the Ravens to a historic win.

If you want to find out about more iconic moments from the NFL, check out our list of the biggest comebacks in history.

Most Remarkable Margins in NFL Games

• Dolphins 70, Broncos 20 (2023): A recent high-scoring game, demonstrating the Dolphins’ offensive capabilities.
• Raiders 51, Broncos 0 (1967): A testament to the Raiders’ strength in their Super Bowl II campaign.
• Browns 51, Steelers 0 (1989): A game that showcased the Browns’ defensive excellence under Bud Carson.
• Giants 62, Eagles 10 (1972): A remarkable offensive display by the Giants, led by Norm Snead.
• Dolphins 52, Patriots 0 (1972): Part of the Dolphins’ perfect season, showcasing their dominance over the Patriots.

Memorable Blowouts and Their Impact

• Rams 52, Raiders 0 (2014): A standout game for the Rams, highlighted by Tre Mason’s performance.
• Patriots 56, Jets 3 (1979): A career day for Steve Grogan, contributing to a significant Patriots victory.
• Packers 56, Falcons 3 (1966): A game that underscored the Packers’ superiority during the Lombardi era.
• Bears 61, Packers 7 (1980): A remarkable win for the Bears, with Vince Evans delivering an outstanding performance.
• Bengals 61, Oilers 7 (1989): A game that intensified the rivalry between Sam Wyche’s Bengals and Jerry Glanville’s Oilers.
• Falcons 62, Saints 7 (1973): A dominant win for the Falcons, with the Saints struggling to find their footing.
• Saints 62, Colts 7 (2011): A commanding performance by the Saints, with Drew Brees leading the charge.
• Seahawks 58, Cardinals 0 (2012): A comprehensive victory for the Seahawks, showcasing their all-around strength.
• Rams 59, Falcons 0 (1976): A game that highlighted the Rams’ dominance in the 1970s, featuring Lawrence McCutcheon’s standout performance.
• Patriots 59, Titans 0 (2009): An extraordinary game for the Patriots, with Tom Brady and Randy Moss setting records.

The Largest Margin of Defeat in NFL History

The Chicago Bears’ 73-0 triumph over the Washington Redskins in 1940 remains the most significant margin of defeat in NFL history – it was one of the most iconic moments in the NFL. Inspired by George Preston Marshall’s words, the Bears showcased a formidable performance using the innovative T formation.

Most Recent NFL Blowouts

The Miami Dolphins’ recent 70-20 win over the Denver Broncos nearly broke the record for most points scored in an NFL game. Coach Mike McDaniel’s decision to not pursue the record reflects a focus on the season’s overall outcome rather than individual accolades.

NFL Since 1970: Top 5 Blowouts

• New England Patriots 59, Tennessee Titans 0 (2009): A game that demonstrated the Patriots’ offensive prowess under Tom Brady.
• Los Angeles Rams 59, Atlanta Falcons 0 (1976): A testament to the Rams’ overwhelming strength during that era.
• Seattle Seahawks 58, Arizona Cardinals 0 (2012): A dominant display by the Seahawks, highlighting Marshawn Lynch’s contributions.
• Jacksonville Jaguars 62, Miami Dolphins 7 (2000): The largest playoff blowout in NFL history, showcasing the Jaguars’ commanding performance.
• New Orleans Saints 62, Indianapolis Colts 7 (2011): A memorable victory for the Saints, with Drew Brees leading a dominant offensive showing.

These historic blowouts, each marked by their own unique stories and record-breaking performances, continue to fascinate and impress NFL fans, serving as a testament to the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of the sport.

Reflecting on the Legacy of NFL’s Most Decisive Victories

As we’ve seen, the NFL’s storied history is peppered with games where the scales tipped remarkably in one team’s favor, leaving fans in awe and opponents in dismay.

From the Bears’ unforgettable 73-0 victory to the Dolphins’ recent scoring frenzy, these games not only redefine limits but also remind us of the unpredictable thrill that keeps the spirit of football alive.

As the league evolves, these record-setting blowouts remain a testament to the extraordinary capabilities and strategic genius that define the NFL.

Impressive Recovery Milestone for Cardinals Star Catcher

Contreras’ recovery has been notably quick, and he was back to swinging a bat just days after surgery. He initially used only his right hand to swing but soon began using both hands lightly for swings, indicating a good recovery pace. It was especially impressive to see him play so early into his recovery, including a game against the Boston Red Sox without a cast.

Contreras is also set for an early return to the lineup, possibly ahead of the original schedule. This indicates not only his physical readiness but also his eagerness to get back to playing full-time​. His return is highly anticipated both for his performance and for the energy he brings to the team.

#STLCards C Willson Contreras, who broke the ulna bone in his left forearm on May 7, is out of a cast. He’s doing conditioning work and he is hopeful that doctors will let him swing a bat with his right hand (top hand on the bat). He said he got the cast off 3 days after surgery.

— John Denton (@JohnDenton555) May 17, 2024

The 32-year-old was off to a fantastic start this season, hitting .280/.398/.551 with six home runs, 11 doubles, and 12 RBIs in 31 games.

Cardinals Struggling But Showing Signs of Improvement

The St. Louis Cardinals have faced numerous challenges this season, including inconsistent performances and significant injuries to key MLB players.

Still, they have been showing signs of improvement recently, winning a significant number of their recent games. As of the latest updates, they have won four of their last five games, which indicates a positive momentum shift for the team.

Ivan Herrera, stepping in during Contreras’ absence, has indeed been performing well, maintaining a notable hitting streak and batting .448 with five RBIs​.

What Happened to Willson Contreras?

Contreras’ injury occurred during a game against the New York Mets when J.D. Martinez’s swing hit him on the left forearm.

Willson Contreras will leave this game after taking a J.D. Martinez swing to his left arm. pic.twitter.com/mJfiqOBf4t

— Bally Sports Midwest (@BallySportsMW) May 8, 2024

Contreras was forced to exit the game and later underwent successful surgery to repair the fracture.

Martinez expressed his regret over the incident, stating, “You’re expecting to hit a ball and you hit an arm… I felt terrible.”

Following the injury, the Cardinals placed Contreras on the injured list and recalled catcher Pedro Pagés.

Contreras’ absence has been felt deeply, as he was not only the team’s most productive hitter but also an improved receiver behind the plate.

Willson Contreras’ Return and New Role for the Cardinals

Willson Contreras’ return to the St. Louis Cardinals brought immediate energy, highlighted by key performances that included a standout two-homer game. After dealing with multiple injuries, including a forearm fracture and a finger injury, Contreras worked hard to come back stronger, showing determination and skill.

Now transitioning from catcher to first base for the 2025 season to help maintain his health, Contreras’ presence remains a significant asset for the Cardinals. His early return and ability to adapt could be pivotal for the team’s strategy as they look to build on their recent challenges and prepare for future success.

Both Contreras and Cardinals fans are hopeful as he adjusts to his new position, and they are looking forward to his continued impact on the field. His path back from injury and the shift in roles is closely followed, with expectations high for his contributions in the upcoming season.

The New York Rangers are finally getting some good news—Filip Chytil and Chris Kreider are back.

After missing games with upper-body injuries, these two important players are ready to return, and it’s just in time for their tough matchup against the Colorado Avalanche.

Their return does a whole lot more than fill empty spots on the roster; it brings some much-needed skill and energy to a team that’s been doing its best to keep things together.

And with Chytil’s playmaking and Kreider’s experience, the Rangers might finally be able to breathe a little easier.

But let’s not kid ourselves—this game will be a challenge. So, what’s the deal with their injuries?

How will their return shake up the lineup?

And most importantly, can the Rangers handle the pressure?

Let’s break it all down before the puck drops.

Filip Chytil’s Expected Return

Filip Chytil is expected to return to the lineup for the New York Rangers against the Colorado Avalanche––at least, that’s the plan.

The New York Rangers’ center, known for his skill and consistency, is likely returning to the lineup against the Colorado Avalanche, and his timing couldn’t be better.

He’s only been out for two games, but his absence felt much longer for a team that relies so heavily on its depth.

And that depth is being tested as injuries continue to affect the team, and fans are left wondering if the Rangers are under some kind of bad luck spell.

Chytil’s injury—suffered during a frustrating overtime loss to the Dallas Stars—has been something of a mystery.

“No concussion issues,” he said, offering some reassurance to those worried about his history of head injuries.

“It’s more complicated than that.”

What exactly that means is anyone’s guess, but in the world of hockey, where injuries are often kept vague, it’s not surprising that he didn’t reveal more.

Even so, the news of his return feels like a win for the team.

He was back at practice on Monday, fitting into the third line with Chris Kreider and Arthur Kaliyev.

He also participated in the second power-play unit, which signals that the Rangers are ready to use his skills in key moments.

So, it does seem like things are falling into place—or at least starting to.

Chris Kreider Brings Leadership and Stability Back to the Ice

Chris Kreider, another big name for the Rangers, is also set to return for the game against Colorado.

Kreider has missed the last four games with an upper-body injury, and there’s been quiet talk about ongoing back problems.

Back injuries, as any fan knows, can be a long-term issue and are always a concern.

Kreider isn’t the flashy type who grabs headlines for jaw-dropping plays, but his absence is always felt.

His numbers this season—13 goals and 15 points—might not look like much, but his value goes far beyond statistics.

He’s a player who makes a difference just by being on the ice.

Seeing him practice on Monday brought relief to fans and teammates, even if it raised some questions.

Now, the same thing is on everyone’s mind: Is he truly ready to play?

Or are the Rangers taking a calculated risk because they desperately need him?

Injuries, Adjustments, and a Tough Opponent

Now, about this game against the Avalanche.

The timing of Chytil’s and Kreider’s returns couldn’t be more critical.

Colorado is among the best in the Western Conference, so the Rangers will need to bring everything they possibly can.

They play fast, they play hard, and they expose any weaknesses their opponents have.

So, the Rangers are going to have to adjust.

The forward lines are being shuffled once again, as they always are when players are out and then return.

And it looks like Jonny Brodzinski and Jimmy Vesey will sit this one out.

Sam Carrick will move back to centering the fourth line, making space for Chytil and Kreider to jump back in.

Sure, it’s not ideal, but that’s how hockey works.

Not to mention, the power-play units are also getting a shakeup.

Kreider and Chytil are both in the second unit, which could help bring some balance.

But power plays rely on timing and teamwork, and you have to wonder if this new setup has had enough time to gel.

Meanwhile, Will Cuylle stays in the first unit, keeping things steady there.

Is this all part of a grand strategy, or are the Rangers making it up as they go?

Sometimes, it’s hard to tell.

A Bigger Test for the Rangers

Let’s not act like this game is only about whether Chytil and Kreider can get back on the ice.

The bigger story here is whether the Rangers can prove they’re still strong enough to compete despite all the setbacks.

The team’s season has been filled with challenges, from Chytil’s earlier concussion issues to Kreider’s persistent back problems.

And yet, this team has a way of bouncing back.

Chytil’s return brings his 10 goals and 17 points back into the mix, adding creativity and skill to the ice.

Kreider’s leadership and ability to find scoring opportunities will be just as important, even if he’s not 100%.

Without question, this is a prime chance for the Rangers to prove they can handle adversity.

The Avalanche are a tough opponent, but maybe the Rangers can use this lineup shuffle to their advantage.

With Chytil and Kreider back, the team could surprise even the skeptics.

The Unpredictable Reality of Hockey

If you were hoping for a clean, clear answer to all this, you’re out of luck.

Hockey is messy, and so is this situation.

Chytil’s “complicated” injury, Kreider’s back problems, the constant line changes—it’s all part of the chaos that makes this sport so intense.

Here’s what we do know: Filip Chytil and Chris Kreider are expected to play.

The Avalanche are a serious challenge.

And the Rangers?

They’re hanging on, as they always do, walking a fine line between resilience and risk.

Will they pull through or falter?

Whatever happens, it’s bound to be worth watching.