Gerrit Cole is expected to have at least two more minor league rehab starts before making his way back to the New York Yankees’ rotation. This decision is being made to ensure that the American League Cy Young Award winner is fully prepared for his return, which is currently being pegged for mid-to-late June.
Both Cole and manager Aaron Boone are treading cautiously when it comes to planning out Cole’s next outings. While it is speculated that he could start on Sunday and again on June 14 if he remains on normal rest, no definitive timeline has been set. The indication is that they will assess his progress after each start to determine the next steps.
Having been sidelined since his only spring training start on March 1 due to nerve inflammation and edema, Cole is taking a methodical approach to his rehabilitation. The plan includes gradually increasing his pitch count by 10-15 pitches per outing, with a third minor league start potentially setting him up for a higher initial pitch limit upon his return to the big leagues.
One interesting aspect of Cole’s rehab process is the use of modern analytical tools to evaluate his performance. According to Cole, these tools provide a more nuanced understanding of how his 45 pitches in a minor league setting compare to the same amount in the major leagues. This data-driven approach allows the team to make informed decisions about his readiness to return.
After his first rehab outing, Cole expressed optimism about his progress, stating that he felt fine and was encouraged by his performance. With his commanding presence on the mound and promising stuff, Cole is on the right track to rejoining the Yankees’ rotation. Manager Aaron Boone also shared positive feedback, noting that Cole looked sharp and had good command during his outing.
Gerrit Cole’s journey back to the Yankees’ rotation involves careful planning, mindful progression, and the use of advanced analytics to ensure that he is fully prepared for his return. While the timeline remains fluid, the signs are promising for Cole to make a strong comeback and bolster the team’s pitching staff in the weeks to come.
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