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.

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.

New York Yankees right-hander Marcus Stroman rejected the notion of pitching out of the bullpen this season after reporting to camp on Friday in Tampa, Fla.

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Marcus Stroman has been a no-show on the field for the New York Yankees’ first two spring training workouts. Stroman isn’t required to participate in spring training until Feb. 22, the mandatory reporting date under the collective bargaining agreement. But most players arrive on the voluntary reporting date.

The idea of the Mets calling the Yankees about Marcus Stroman feels more like a wild rumor than a legitimate possibility. Yet, with New York losing Frankie Montas for at least two months, the speculation has picked up steam.

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.