Gerrit Cole Advances in Recovery from Tommy John Surgery: A Promising Step for the Yankees

New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole is making significant strides in his recovery journey following Tommy John surgery, with his recent throwing session marking a hopeful turn for the team.

Gerrit Cole’s Rehabilitation Progress

On Monday, Cole, the 2023 Cy Young Award winner and six-time All-Star, commenced his throwing program just before the Yankees faced off against the Minnesota Twins, securing a solid 6-2 victory. He reported throwing 20 pitches off flat ground, expressing enthusiasm for the milestone.

“It felt really good today. I was fairly accurate and had a good time,” Cole remarked. “It’s a big one, first day throwing. Been building up to it for a few weeks, so it’s nice to get outside and get it accomplished.”

Surgical Background

At 34 years old, Cole underwent surgery on March 11 to repair a torn ligament in his right elbow. The procedure included the implementation of an internal brace, intended to expedite recovery. The next crucial step for Cole is transitioning to the mound for further evaluation of his throwing ability.

Manager’s Support and Future Outlook

Yankees manager Aaron Boone commended Cole’s dedication throughout the rehabilitation process, stating,

“Excited for him. He’s done a good job with rehab. This is one of those cool markers along the way that is significant to hit.”

Other Players on the Mend

In addition to Cole’s progress, Yankees players Fernando Cruz and Ryan Yarbrough are also set to commence rehabilitation assignments. Both are recovering from oblique strains and are scheduled to pitch again with Double-A Somerset.

• Fernando Cruz: Expected to throw on Thursday, Sunday, and Tuesday as he works toward rejoining the Yankees after being sidelined since late June. This high-leverage right-handed reliever recently completed a 19-pitch live batting practice session.
• Ryan Yarbrough: The pitcher, with eight starts this season, is also in the rehabilitation phase, having thrown a live batting practice session on Sunday. Boone indicated the decision to reintegrate him will depend on his ongoing performance and physical condition.

Aaron Judge’s Outfield Status

While Cole and his fellow pitchers work through their recovery, the Yankees’ star slugger Aaron Judge will not be available in the outfield during the series against the Twins. However, Boone hinted that he could see some action shortly after these three games.

Yankees’ Historical Dominance Over Twins

The Yankees have a storied history against the Twins, boasting an impressive 107-42 record against them since 2002, the best by any team in its league during that time. In total, including postseason matchups, the Yankees hold a 123-44 advantage over Minnesota, having won their last seven encounters.

This promising progress in the Yankees’ roster gives fans renewed hope as they continue their season, especially with the anticipated return of key players like Cole and Judge.