Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole made a promising return to the mound during Spring Training at George M. Steinbrenner Field, drawing positive remarks from team manager Aaron Boone. Cole, who underwent Tommy John surgery last March, threw about 30 pitches in his latest session.
“He looked like Gerrit Cole,” Boone said. “Just really efficient, really great command. When I think of Gerrit and his greatness, a lot of it ties to his delivery. Everything looks like it’s coming out free and easy. I liken it to a diver that dives off the high board and just goes in the water, making no splash. That’s Gerrit.”
Cole resumed bullpen sessions late in the 2025 season before continuing his rehabilitation program in California. He described the process as challenging but reaffirming.
“The work during this rehab process is different than what I typically would be doing when healthy,” Cole said. “Yet I’ve attacked the process the same way, and that has produced good results. It just gives me confidence that I go about my business the right way.”
Catcher Austin Wells was present for Cole’s session and commented on his performance.
“It was really encouraging and exciting to see him on the mound,” Wells said. “I saw his name on the schedule yesterday and had to make sure I was back there for it. He looked like a Cy Young pitcher; he looked smooth and in control, and confident in his ability.”
Cole’s last competitive appearance was against the Dodgers during Game 7 of the 2024 World Series, after which he began experiencing discomfort attributed to over 2,000 innings pitched on his right elbow throughout his career.
The pitcher expressed optimism regarding his recovery: “It feels different than it has been in quite some time,” Cole said.
Boone indicated that Cole may pitch limited innings during Grapefruit League games this spring as discussions with coaching staff continue over coming weeks. The Yankees have not changed their projected timeline for Cole’s return, which remains set for late May or June following a typical 14-18 month rehabilitation period for Tommy John surgery.
“I’m just kind of doing exactly what I’ve been told,” Cole said. “So when I’m told to push, I push. When I’m told not to, I don’t. I really haven’t deviated hardly at all from our targets.”
Boone added: “I’m not going to put anything past Gerrit Cole. He’s so good at his craft, and the success rate on these surgeries is usually pretty good. Everyone’s different, but I’m not going to put any ceilings on what Gerrit could do.”
