An MLB insider has delivered concerning news regarding Gerrit Cole’s injury status for the New York Yankees. Despite the Yankees boasting one of the best records in baseball, they continue to miss key players, including starting pitcher Cole. Although the Cy Young Award winner is eligible to return from the injured list by the end of May, recent reports suggest that his comeback may be delayed further.
Cole, who had an outstanding season prior, encountered discomfort in his pitching elbow during spring training. The Yankees promptly sidelined him for testing, which revealed inflammation and edema in his right elbow. Doctors prescribed a month-long rest period, dealing a significant blow to the Yankees’ rotation at the beginning of the regular season. This injury is particularly concerning given the prevalence of elbow injuries among hard-throwing starting pitchers, often necessitating Tommy John surgery. While Cole has avoided such a fate and is progressing toward recovery, there’s still a considerable journey ahead.
According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, who spoke on Fox Sports, Cole’s return appears distant, and it’s now deemed “unlikely” for him to rejoin the Yankees when first eligible. Despite the team’s strong performance in his absence, their starting pitching hasn’t maintained its dominance of late. From April 21-29, the Yankees’ rotation ranked 14th in ERA (3.53) and 22nd in walk rate (9 percent).
With Cole’s significant contract and his age of 33, the Yankees will likely proceed cautiously, ensuring ample rest between each step of his recovery to prevent any recurrence of pain or discomfort in his elbow. Given the stakes for the Yankees and the risks associated with an elbow injury, it’s conceivable that Cole may not return to the mound at Yankee Stadium until several weeks into June.
