Gerrit Cole’s Rehabilitation Progress
On Monday, Gerrit Cole made significant strides in his recovery from Tommy John’s surgery.
The 2023 Cy Young Award winner and multiple-time All-Star kicked off his rehabilitation with a slow program, coinciding with the Yankees’ 6-2 victory over the Twins in a three-game series. He threw 20 pitches from a flat surface.
“Today felt really good. I was pretty accurate and enjoyed it a lot,” Cole mentioned. “Throwing for the first time is a big milestone. I’ve been ramping it up for a few weeks, and it’s fantastic to finally achieve this.”
At 34, Cole had surgery on March 11 to repair a torn ligament in his right elbow, having only appeared in two spring training games prior. The procedure included an internal brace aimed at hastening his recovery, and Cole remarked that the next crucial step is getting back on the mound.
“I’m really excited about him. He did well in his rehab,” said coach Aaron Boone. “This is an important milestone that we’re looking forward to.”
Meanwhile, pitchers Fernando Cruz and Ryan Yarbrough, both recovering from injuries, are set to commence rehabilitation assignments at Double A Somerset on Thursday. Boone stated that Cruz plans to throw on Thursday, Sunday, and Tuesday before potentially rejoining the Yankees. He recently completed a live batting practice session, throwing 19 pitches.
There’s still uncertainty surrounding Yarbrough, who has had eight starts for the Yankees and may become a rotation option.
“It really depends on how much we decide to build him up,” Boone noted regarding Yarbrough. “We’ll keep assessing how he’s doing.”
Yarbrough also participated in a live batting practice session over the weekend.
As for Aaron Judge, Boone confirmed he won’t be playing in the outfield against the Twins, but could return shortly after the series.
The Yankees have a strong historical record against the Twins, with a 107-42 regular-season tally since 2002, the best among teams in the league. Including the postseason, that record extends to 123-44, highlighting their dominance with seven consecutive victories over Minnesota.
