Gerrit Cole finally opens up about elbow surgery: ‘It stinks’
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Follow UsYankees ace Gerrit Cole is now eight weeks removed from Tommy John surgery and has officially entered the next phase of his recovery — one that could keep him off a big-league mound until at least May 2026.
Gerrit Cole speaks for the first time since surgery
On Monday, Gerrit Cole addressed the media for the first time since undergoing the procedure on March 11, which included a reconstruction of his right ulnar collateral ligament and the addition of an internal brace. The surgery was performed by Los Angeles Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache.
“I’m under the impression that it’s the same recovery time, 14 months or so,” Gerrit said. “I hope it comes back like maybe like a fresh new set of tires. That’s the best hope — just a pit stop that took a little longer than you had hoped for.”
The 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner recently had his arm brace removed and has regained some range of motion. On Sunday, he appeared in the Yankees’ dugout during their game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium — his first time there this season.
“It stunk,” Gerrit Cole said, pointing to a scar that runs from his forearm to near his bicep. “But now that I’m stronger and less worried about getting bumped, it’s nice to be back and be able to come around more. I’ve been here every day, six days a week. Now I can extend my time and be around the guys more, which is great.”
A long recovery ahead
Gerrit Cole is not placing a firm date on his return, but if his rehab stays on track and remains aggressive, he could begin throwing again by August — a key milestone.
“That’ll feel like I’m kind of back in my lane a little bit,” he said. “Just being able to play catch will bring back a sense of normalcy.”
The 34-year-old right-hander owns a 153-80 career record with a 3.18 ERA across 12 major league seasons. While the Yankees will be without him for the remainder of 2025, his leadership and experience continue to provide value inside the clubhouse.
Despite being sidelined, Gerrit Cole said he remains mentally engaged in every game.
“I pitch every night in my head,” he said. “It’s not what I wanted, but we’re making the most of it. And I’ll be ready when it’s time.”
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