MESA, AZ – Gerrit Cole, the New York Yankees’ ace, took another significant step toward his return from Tommy John surgery Tuesday, completing 1⅔ innings of work against the Chicago Cubs in the team’s final spring training game. The 35-year-old struck out three batters and allowed one run – a home run to Alex Bregman – in what he described as a positive outing. The appearance marked Cole’s second and final tune-up before heading to Tampa, Florida, to continue his rehabilitation and preparation for a delayed season debut. The Yankees are carefully managing Cole’s return, aiming for a late May or early June start to the regular season.
For a team eager to contend after a disappointing 2025, Cole’s health is paramount. He last pitched in a major league game in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series, and his absence last season left a noticeable void in the Yankees’ rotation. The $324 million pitcher, signed through 2028, brings not only elite talent – a career 153-80 record and 3.18 ERA over 317 starts with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Houston Astros, and Yankees – but also a veteran presence to a pitching staff undergoing its own transitions.
Building Back Velocity and Confidence
Cole’s performance Tuesday offered encouraging signs. He reached 98 mph with his fastball, averaging 96.3 mph, and utilized his full repertoire of pitches, including his knuckle curve, slider, sinker, changeup, and cutter. According to data from the game, 17 of his 26 pitches were strikes. Even as Bregman’s home run was a reminder that there’s still work to be done, Cole remained upbeat about the progress he’s making. “Good pitch, better swing, and that’s the way it goes with good players sometimes,” Cole said after the game. “I had some good shapes and some good spots, so pretty good day.”
The Yankees are being particularly cautious with Cole’s workload as he returns from a major surgery. Tommy John surgery, which reconstructs the ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow, typically requires a lengthy recovery period. The team’s medical staff is closely monitoring Cole’s progress, focusing on both his velocity and his ability to maintain his mechanics without discomfort. The goal isn’t just to get Cole back on the mound, but to ensure he remains a dominant force for years to arrive.
Yankees Rotation Takes Shape – With Gil on Hold
While Cole continues his recovery, the Yankees are finalizing their plans for the opening of the regular season. The team will begin the season with a four-man starting rotation consisting of Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, and Ryan Weathers, as first reported by ESPN. This decision means that Luis Gil, who had a strong showing during spring training, will begin the season with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Manager Aaron Boone explained the decision as a way to manage Gil’s development and ensure he maintains a starting pitcher’s routine. “I think he was a little upset about it, but I feel like he’s in a good frame of mind right now,” Boone said Tuesday. “We expect him to be in the rotation, but at the same time, there’s a lot of people pushing for competition right now that are pushing themselves into the conversation.” The Yankees, with four off days scheduled in the first 13 days of the season, have some flexibility in managing their pitching staff.
The decision regarding Gil highlights the depth the Yankees have built within their pitching system. Schlittler, Warren, and Weathers all impressed during spring training, earning their spots in the opening day rotation. Fried, acquired in the offseason, is expected to anchor the staff, providing a veteran presence and a reliable arm at the top of the lineup.
Looking Ahead: Cole’s Return and the Yankees’ Season
The Yankees open the regular season Wednesday against the San Francisco Giants. While Cole won’t be available for that series, the team remains optimistic about his return in late May or early June. His presence will be a significant boost to the Yankees’ chances of competing for a championship. The team’s success will depend not only on Cole’s performance but also on the continued development of their young pitchers and the consistency of their offense.
The Yankees’ front office has been focused on building a sustainable contender, and the current roster reflects that strategy. The combination of established veterans and promising young players gives the team a solid foundation for success. As Cole continues his recovery, the Yankees will be closely monitoring his progress, eager to welcome him back to the mound and begin their pursuit of a championship.
Fans can follow Gerrit Cole’s progress and the Yankees’ season on the team’s official website, MLB.com, and through various media outlets covering the team. Updates on Cole’s rehabilitation schedule and potential return date will be provided as they become available.
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