John Jones, John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
The New York Yankees are eagerly awaiting the return of their ace, Gerrit Cole, who is inching closer to his Major League Baseball (MLB) return. The reigning AL Cy Young Award winner has been sidelined by nerve inflammation in his elbow since spring training. However, his recent performances in rehab starts indicate that he is on the right track to recovery.
Rehab Starts: A Promising Comeback
Cole made his first minor league rehab start with New York’s Double-A affiliate, the Somerset Patriots. He threw 45 pitches in 3 1/3 scoreless innings, a promising sign of his recovery. His second rehab start was even more impressive. Cole pitched 4 2/3 innings of one-run ball for Double-A Somerset. He allowed two hits, struck out four, and walked one against Hartford, retiring his last eight batters.
The 33-year-old Cole’s performance was commendable, especially considering that he was diagnosed with nerve inflammation and edema and told to rest after his only spring training start on March 1. He began throwing bullpen sessions on May 4.
The Road Ahead
Despite the successful rehab starts, Cole is scheduled to make at least one more minor league start. On normal four days’ rest, he would pitch Friday. His earliest possible return to the Yankees would be the home series against the Baltimore Orioles.
The Yankees do not have a set number of rehab starts in mind for Cole. Manager Aaron Boone mentioned that it’s possible they will bring him back before he’s fully built up to 100 pitches. It depends on his progress, how he feels, and other factors.
Conclusion
The return of Gerrit Cole to the Yankees’ rotation is eagerly anticipated. His recent rehab starts have shown promising signs of his recovery. The Yankees, who have been performing well even in his absence, will undoubtedly be bolstered by his return. As the reigning AL Cy Young winner, Cole’s return will be a significant boost to the team’s pitching rotation. Fans and teammates alike are looking forward to seeing him back on the mound, contributing to the Yankees’ success.
