Gerrit Cole Takes Key Step in Return from Tommy John Surgery

Tampa, FL – Novel York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole faced hitters for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery last spring, pitching an inning of live batting practice at George M. Steinbrenner Field on Friday.

Progress Report: Cole Reaches 97 MPH

Cole reached speeds of up to 97 mph during the session, consistently throwing between 95-96 mph. He faced Trent Grisham, Aaron Judge, and Jasson Domínguez. The right-hander threw approximately 20 pitches.

New Mechanics and Recovery Timeline

The 35-year-old Cole is showcasing a modified windup, raising his hands over his head – a change from stopping at his chest prior to the injury. The Yankees anticipate Cole will return to major league action sometime between late May and September, aligning with the expected 14 to 18-month recovery period.

“It seemed like it was pretty good,”

Aaron Boone, Yankees Manager

Cole’s Performance and Future Outlook

Cole won the American League Cy Young Award in 2023, posting a 15-4 record with a 2.63 ERA in 33 starts. In 2024, before the injury, he went 8-5 with a 3.41 ERA in 17 starts, contributing to the Yankees’ pennant-winning season.

“I’m a confident man,” Cole said recently. I have high expectations for my execution internally. But in terms of performance and expectations, I don’t really have set goals or numbers or anything like that. It’s worked very well to go day by day and execute the task at hand.

Gerrit Cole

Rehabilitation Journey

Cole described his rehabilitation process as long and tedious, but noted that progress is accelerating as he nears a full recovery. He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on daily execution.

FAQ

• When is Gerrit Cole expected to return? The Yankees expect Cole to return between late May and September.
• What is Cole’s fastball velocity? During his batting practice session, Cole reached speeds of up to 97 mph.
• Has Cole changed his pitching mechanics? Yes, Cole is using a new overhead mechanic.

Cole’s successful return will be pivotal for the Yankees’ championship aspirations in 2026. The team as well anticipates the return of Carlos Rodon and Clarke Schmidt from injuries later in the season, bolstering their pitching rotation.

Stay tuned to 247sports.news for continued coverage of Gerrit Cole’s recovery and the Yankees’ spring training progress.