Gerrit Cole, the Yankees’ ace pitcher, made an important step in his rehab process as he faced hitters for the first time since early March. On a steamy and sunny afternoon, Cole suited up in full pinstripes, expressing his happiness to be back on the mound. The Yankees’ home dugout was packed with eager onlookers, including manager Aaron Boone and executive Omar Minaya, as they watched the 20-pitch session with anticipation.
Cole used all of his pitches while facing lefty-swinging Oswaldo Cabrera and righty-swinging Jahmai Jones. Both batters made contact, resulting in a pair of projected flyouts. Overall, Cole was pleased with his performance, except for his changeup, which he felt went below the strike zone too often. He also experienced the added adrenaline that comes with facing real hitters.
During his rehab process, Cole is not throwing at 100 percent yet, as he suffered from elbow nerve inflammation and edema earlier this spring. He realized that he had unleashed too quickly during his throwing sessions, leading to difficulties in bouncing back. Now, he is taking a more measured approach, ensuring that he lengthens out at appropriate increments.
Cole expects to have one or two more live batting-practice sessions before being cleared to begin building up in the minor leagues. If all goes well, he could be ready to return by the end of June or early July. When asked about the more optimistic timeline of a June return, Cole did not rule it out. However, Boone cautioned against getting ahead of themselves and emphasized the need for patience.
In previous years, there might have been more urgency for Cole to return quickly, but this year the Yankees’ rotation has performed exceptionally well even without their star pitcher. The rotation currently holds a 2.95 ERA, which is the third-best in the majors. With breakout star Luis Gil filling in Cole’s spot, there is no outside pressure for Cole to rush his recovery.
During the session, Cole showcased his fastball with precise location, mixing in sharp sliders and curveballs. The only area needing improvement is his changeup, but he is confident he has time to work on it. If Cole feels fine the next day, it would be a significant milestone in his rehab process.
Boone was impressed with Cole’s performance, noting that it looked like the ball was coming out easily and that he appeared sharp. Jones also praised Cole, saying it was the best 70 or 60 percent he had ever seen. Overall, Cole’s session provided optimism for his eventual return to the Yankees’ rotation, but caution and patience remain key in his recovery journey.
