Gerrit Cole recently spoke about his recovery process — an update the New York Yankees fans had been eagerly waiting for. And now, they can breathe a little easier knowing he’s no longer wearing the arm brace.
“Gerrit Cole spoke with the media this afternoon in the Yankees clubhouse. He is continuing to improve following Tommy John surgery. Hopes to resume playing catch in August. He said he still pitches mentally every night before bed,” Yankees reporter Bryan Hoch wrote, quoting Cole’s comments to the media.
One light-hearted and memorable quote from Cole came when he said, “I haven’t given up any hits,” a sign that his competitive mindset remains sharp even as he recovers from the surgery he underwent several weeks ago.
How much time will Gerrit Cole miss?
Even though Cole says he hopes to begin playing catch in August — a sign of progress — his return to action is still expected to come in 2026. He’s projected to miss the entire 2025 MLB season, marking the second time an injury has forced him out for an extended stretch since joining the Yankees.
In Cole’s absence, the Yankees have been fighting to hold the rotation together. Max Fried has stepped up with a dominant 6-0 record and a 1.01 ERA, delivering a stellar individual season. However, the rest of the starting rotation has combined for a 6.41 ERA — a clear sign the Yankees are missing their ace.
SURVEY Will Cole have a successful return after his surgery?
Will Cole have a successful return after his surgery?
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The Yankees need Gerrit Cole back
It’s not just about the nearly $100 million Cole is still owed by the Yankees. From 2021 to 2023, Cole was consistently dominant in pinstripes. In 2023, he posted a 2.63 ERA — the second-best mark of his 12-year career. He’s never had a losing season in New York, with a combined record of 59-28 and a 3.12 ERA since 2020. The Yankees know exactly what they’re missing.