As Gerrit Cole inches closer to his much-anticipated return to the New York Yankees’ pitching rotation, fans eagerly await his next rehab start this Sunday.
Following a stellar performance in his initial rehab outing with the Somerset Patriots, where he showcased his pitching prowess over 3.1 innings, Cole is gearing up for another stint in Double-A.
All aboard the Cole train🚊 #HealthyLineup pic.twitter.com/VghDQEouh6
— Somerset Patriots (@SOMPatriots) June 9, 2024
This time around, the Yankees’ ace is expected to up the ante, with his pitch count slated to hover between 55 and 60 pitches. A modest increase from his previous outing, where he tossed 45 pitches, reflects Cole’s gradual ramp-up back to full strength.
However, the path to Cole’s MLB comeback remains shrouded in uncertainty. The decision on his return timeline hinges on a collaborative effort between Cole himself and the team’s medical staff, who will monitor his progress closely.
Manager Aaron Boone has hinted at a cautious approach, indicating that Cole will likely require “at least a few” more appearances in the minor leagues before donning the pinstripes once more.
Despite recent setbacks against the formidable Los Angeles Dodgers, the Yankees maintain a stronghold atop the American League standings, boasting the second-best record across MLB. As they await Cole’s triumphant return, anticipation brews among fans for his imminent comeback to bolster the team’s formidable pitching arsenal.
