Gerrit Cole is making strides in his recovery from Tommy John surgery. He’ll start a rehab assignment at Double-A Somerset. This is an important milestone, especially since it’s been a long road for him. Manager Aaron Boone shared the news with reporters, including Jorge Castillo from ESPN.
Before this assignment, Cole had a couple of short starts during Spring Training. Recently, he has focused on bullpen sessions and facing live batters. This game on Friday will be his first regular season action since 2024. He underwent surgery in March 2025 after his elbow gave out.
Typically, rehab assignments for pitchers last up to 30 days, but the league can extend this as needed. Given his recovery, Cole might still take over a month before he’s back on the big league roster.
Meanwhile, the Yankees’ starting rotation includes Max Fried, Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, Ryan Weathers, and Luis Gil. The top three have performed well early in the season. Weathers has had some inconsistencies, only once pitching over five innings, but he’s racked up strikeouts with his strong stuff. Gil struggled initially, allowing four home runs in his first nine innings.
Carlos Rodón is also recovering well, having not yet started his rehab assignment. He had a procedure to remove loose bodies from his elbow but has been throwing live batting practice. If all goes well, the rotation could have six strong pitchers ready when Cole and Rodón return.
Cole will be joining shortstop Anthony Volpe at Somerset, who began his own rehab stint this week. Volpe faced Zack Wheeler in two at-bats, striking out both times but got a day off after playing five innings in the field. He’s coming back from shoulder surgery and can stay on rehab for about 20 days.
With Volpe sidelined, José Caballero has taken over shortstop duties. He recently hit a walk-off double, but overall, his batting average stands at .169 this season. Once Volpe is back, Caballero is expected to shift to a utility role. Backup catcher J.C. Escarra is the only player on the bench with minor league options, so someone will need to be designated for assignment when Volpe rejoins the team.
As fans keep an eye on these developments, it’s clear that the Yankees are navigating a challenging season. The comeback of Cole and Volpe could greatly impact their performance, especially as they aim for more wins in the months ahead.
For more information on pitcher recovery processes, you can refer to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons for expert insights.
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