MESA, Ariz. — Gerrit Cole is stepping up his rehab from Tommy John surgery. He recently made his second and final spring training start, looking strong as he pitched 1 ²/₃ innings with 26 pitches in an 8-3 victory over the Cubs. He struck out three batters and clocked a fastball that averaged 96.3 mph, peaking at 98 mph.
“Overall, pretty good,” Cole said after the game, acknowledging that while there’s still a way to go, he’s optimistic about his progress. He plans to adhere to a timeline of 14 to 18 months for his recovery, potentially returning to the mound in the majors by mid-May.
Interestingly, Cole mentioned he had not heard about the possibility of being placed on the 60-day injured list, which would keep him out until after May 24. The Yankees don’t currently need to make space on their 40-man roster, so that’s positive for him.
Though some might think he’s ahead of schedule, Cole is planning to adjust his workload for upcoming outings. He will pitch in Tampa next and then head to New York for the home opener on April 3. That’s when conversations about starting his rehab assignment could begin.
“I’m confident, but there’s still a lot of pitching to do,” he shared. “We’ll see what challenges come my way.” He emphasized that maintaining discipline on the mound is crucial. He’s keen to improve on his past struggles with command. After recently giving up a solo homer, he noted the need for adjustments, showing his focus on continuous improvement.
This isn’t just a personal journey for Cole; it’s a significant moment for the Yankees. A successful return could impact their season considerably. According to a recent survey by ESPN, the Yankees are expected to be contenders this year, and bolstering their pitching staff will be essential.
Meanwhile, Cole’s teammate, Ryan Weathers, had a notable performance of his own, pitching five innings with only one run allowed. He shared his relief at getting back on track after struggling in prior outings.
As fans eagerly await Cole’s comeback, social media chatter suggests that excitement is building. Many supporters are sharing highlights of his past performances, reinforcing their hope for his return. Fans recognize the role of social media in building hype, with the hashtag #ColeIsComing gaining traction.
This blend of individual success and team dynamics is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports. The road to recovery is never straightforward, but if all goes well, Cole’s return could be a turning point for the Yankees this season, enhancing their chances in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
For more on athletic injuries and recovery timelines, you can check resources like the [American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine](https://www.aossm.org/), which provides extensive insights into rehab protocols and athlete wellness.
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