Tributes for Tommy John by Gerrit Cole
TORONTO — Gerrit Cole, who recently benefited from the surgical procedure that bears Tommy John’s name, expressed his condolences and memories of the former Yankees pitcher, who passed away at 83 on Saturday night.
“One thing that stands out is how much of a pioneer he was. His resilience in facing the uncertainties of surgery is remarkable. He not only went through the experience himself but also documented it, creating a guide on how to persevere and find success afterward,” Cole mentioned following the Yankees’ 4-3 victory against the Blue Jays at Rogers Center on Sunday.
Tommy John made history as the first baseball player to undergo UCL surgery, performed by Dr. Frank Jobe in 1974. He returned to the mound post-surgery, pitching in 405 games and accumulating 2,544⅓ innings, winning 164 of his 288 career games with his newly reconstructed elbow.
Cole, who underwent the surgery himself in 2025, has demonstrated impressive performance this year, achieving a 3.22 ERA in his first 15 starts.
He reflected on John’s impact, noting how significant it is that players have the opportunity to continue their careers after injuries, largely thanks to Tommy John and Dr. Jobe. “It’s a real blessing,” Cole said.
Both Cole and manager Aaron Boone are advocates for John’s induction into the Hall of Fame, emphasizing that it’s not solely about the surgery named after him.
Boone remarked, “I hope people remember the greatness of his career rather than just the injuries that are often associated with his name.” He also reminisced about John’s distinctive windup, which he admires and wishes to emulate. “He had an exceptional career and a legacy that endures.”
Meanwhile, as Carlos Rodon edges closer to returning from injury, Ryan Weathers continues to solidify his spot in the starting rotation.
On Sunday, Weathers delivered a strong performance, allowing just one run over 7 1/3 innings against the Blue Jays, outlasting the ace pitcher Dylan Cies, who pitched 6 1/3 innings and gave up two runs.
“I didn’t go into the game thinking I had to outdo him. I just wanted to keep the score close,” Weathers explained. “And I was able to do that today.” He also navigated out of a tricky situation with a double play in the second inning and boasts a remarkable 0.85 ERA in his past five starts, setting him up as a strong contender for a rotation spot once Rodon is back.
Warren is scheduled to start Tuesday against the Orioles, coinciding with Rodon’s anticipated return to action. There was some uncertainty about whether Rodon would need to start a rehab assignment instead, but no official decision had been announced by Sunday.
Weathers’ efficiency on the mound was crucial, especially since Boone aimed to limit the usage of relievers Blackburn and Headrick due to their recent workload. After relying on Bednar for five outs, Tim Hill closed the game in the bottom of the 10th, conceding only one hit and securing his second save of the season.
“He did really well in that left-handed matchup,” Boone noted. “He came in and threw the ball effectively.”
