Amid optimism of Gerrit Cole returning from an elbow injury when his IL stint ends on May 27, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic has thrown a spanner. According to him, the New York Yankees ace’s activation off the injured list will likely be delayed beyond his initial eligibility date.
While Gerrit Cole has progressed to throwing sessions on flat ground, the plan is to transition him to mound work next week. However, Rosenthal emphasizes that even with this progress, returning by May 27 is highly improbable. The insider explains that pitchers typically require a six-week buildup during Spring Training, and Gerrit Cole’s timeline wouldn’t allow him to complete this process before his eligibility date.
“He’s been throwing off flat ground and the expectation is that he will get it off a mound sometime next week,” he said. “Keep in mind, he cannot come off the injured list until May 27, and it’s probably unlikely he’ll be ready at that time.”
Gerrit Cole setback won’t bother the Yankees much
This setback comes after Gerrit Cole’s stellar 2023 season, where he dominated with a 2.63 ERA, an astounding 222 strikeouts, and a league-leading 0.98 WHIP, ultimately earning him the Cy Young Award. Despite Cole’s absence, the Yankees haven’t missed a beat, boasting an impressive 19-10 record and currently leading the AL East division. Carlos Rodon has stepped up as a pitching leader with a remarkable 2.48 ERA, and the offense has been firing on all cylinders.
While the Yankees are undoubtedly eager to get Gerrit Cole back on the mound, his delayed return is less concerning due to their hurlers’ current success. This strong performance allows them to be more cautious with the ace pitcher’s rehabilitation and ensure he returns fully healthy, rather than rushing him back before he’s ready.
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Anyone that had Coke coming back before June 15th, are 1000% wrong. It’s May 3 now, he has yet to throw a single bullpen session. Pitchers are given a 30 day rehab clock. Unless an injury coincides after his 3rd rehab start, June 15th is the absolute earliest. I’m thinking more like June 26.