Gerrit Cole Hits 99.6 mph in Rehab, Yankees Return Likely Soon

Gerrit Cole reached 99.6 mph on his fastball in his latest rehab game, showing significant progress. This is his fastest pitch since his surgery.
By Newsroom | Sports, Baseball |

SPEED SHOWS PROGRESS IN REHAB OUTING

Gerrit Cole, sidelined by reconstructive elbow surgery on March 11 last year, has touched 99.6 mph with his four-seam fastball during his sixth minor league rehabilitation start. The reigning American League Cy Young Award winner pitched 5 1/3 innings for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre against the Syracuse Mets on Saturday night, throwing 86 pitches. Of those, 56 were strikes, and his fastball averaged 97 mph. This outing, his pitch count increased from the previous 77 pitches.

Cole's recovery trajectory indicates a steady ascent in both velocity and command. This performance is being positioned as likely his penultimate minor league appearance before reintegrating with the New York Yankees.

REHAB ROUTINE AND NUMBERS

The pitcher's rehab journey has been structured to systematically increase workload and gauge arm strength. Cole's numbers over 28 2/3 innings in his rehab appearances stand at a 4.71 earned run average. He has allowed 28 hits, recorded 28 strikeouts, and issued only three walks. His initial minor league rehab start occurred on April 17.

Read More: Prime Video Rapid Recap For Champions League: Get Highlights Fast

CONTEXT AND TIMING

Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated on Friday that Cole would likely make one more minor league start following this past weekend's outing. The timing of Cole's return is a significant development for the Yankees, as his presence in the rotation is highly anticipated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How fast did Gerrit Cole throw in his latest rehab game?
Gerrit Cole reached 99.6 mph with his four-seam fastball during his sixth minor league rehabilitation start on Saturday night. His fastball averaged 97 mph over 86 pitches.
Q: When is Gerrit Cole expected to return to the New York Yankees?
Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Cole will likely make one more minor league start after Saturday's game. His return to the Yankees is expected soon after that.
Q: What are Gerrit Cole's stats during his rehab starts?
In 28 2/3 innings across his rehab appearances, Cole has a 4.71 ERA. He has given up 28 hits, struck out 28 batters, and only walked 3.
Q: Why is Gerrit Cole's fast fastball speed important for the Yankees?
Cole's high velocity shows he is recovering well from elbow surgery. His return will significantly boost the Yankees' pitching rotation.