The hometown hero has taken full advantage of his return to the big city, making an impact on and off the mound.
Born and raised in Medford, N.Y., on Long Island, Marcus Stroman was selected in the first round of the 2012 MLB Draft out of Duke University. Throughout his career, he has continued to make a name for himself through his consistent performance, winning mentality and passion for the game. Not long after accomplishing his dream of making it to the Major Leagues, Marcus began focusing on his next dream: motivating and empowering youth.
Inspired by his story of success and perseverance against the odds, Marcus founded the Height Doesn’t Measure Heart (HDMH) Foundation in 2018 to encourage young people, especially those from inner cities and high-need areas, to rise above their circumstances and pursue their dreams. To date, the HDMH Foundation has served nearly 1,000 youth and provided 300,000 meals.
Prior to the start of the 2024 season, Marcus, the HDMH Foundation, Roc Nation Sports and the Yankees organization began working on an initiative that has provided Marcus with the ability to speak directly with local youth bi-monthly at Yankee Stadium. Partnering with groups such as the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, DREAM Charter Schools, the YMCA and the NYPD, among others, Marcus has proven to be a positive role model, establishing a dialogue with students that emphasizes the importance of an outstanding work ethic, mental health and education.
Often citing his status as the shortest pitcher in the league, Marcus’ story of overcoming doubt and outworking his peers resonates with the youth with whom he meets. During his speaking sessions at Yankee Stadium, students show interest consistently in Marcus’ upbringing, his journey to MLB, navigating fatherhood, spending time with his family and friends, and what life is like as a professional athlete. Through his insights and motivational words of encouragement, youth participants are provided the fundamentals needed to achieve the best version of themselves.
In addition, Marcus and his foundation launched a scholarship program earlier this year in partnership with Bold.org, which awarded a $25,000 scholarship to two Bronx high school seniors, helping them attend the college of their dreams. Reducing the financial burden on families allows for increased opportunities, financial freedom and the ability for students to be their own hero by focusing on their education and building toward future success.
Marcus’ commitment to community efforts mirrors that of his drive on the field. By sharing the wisdom he has achieved throughout his life, he has given countless youth the tools needed to overcome any obstacle, no matter how tall it may be.