THREE RUNS ALLOWED IN THIRD REHAB APPEARANCE
Gerrit Cole, the Yankees' ace pitcher, allowed three runs over 5 2/3 innings in his third minor league rehabilitation start on Wednesday. This outing, with Double-A Somerset against the Portland Sea Dogs, saw him throw 60 pitches, an increase from his previous starts. While he scattered three hits, the runs scored mark a point of consideration as his return to the major league mound approaches. Cole's pitch count has systematically increased across his three rehab starts, indicating a progression in his recovery.
LENGTHIEST OUTING YET FOR COLE
The game on Wednesday represented Cole's longest rehab outing to date. He retired the first 11 batters he faced before allowing a hit. The runs conceded included two home runs. His command was described as a positive, with a significant portion of his 60 pitches falling within the strike zone – 45 strikes were recorded. This effort continues a recovery process that began after Tommy John surgery in March 2025, with an initial projected 14-month recovery window.
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VOLPE'S REHAB ALSO NEARING CONCLUSION
In related news, Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe appears to be on the verge of concluding his own rehabilitation assignment. Volpe, who turned 25 on Tuesday, has made appearances with both Double-A Somerset and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre during his rehab period.
PROGRESSION ACROSS REHAB STARTS
Cole's performance trajectory shows a gradual increase in workload and a variable outcome in terms of runs allowed. His first rehab start, on April 17 with Double-A Somerset against Reading, saw him allow three runs over 4 1/3 innings on 44 pitches. His second outing, six days ago with High-A Hudson Valley against the Brooklyn Cyclones, involved two runs allowed across 4 1/3 innings on 52 pitches. Across his rehab starts prior to Wednesday's outing, he had pitched 8 2/3 innings, allowing five runs on eight hits, with one walk and seven strikeouts.
BACKGROUND OF INJURY AND RECOVERY
The reigning AL Cy Young winner underwent surgery with Los Angeles Dodgers physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache. Cole made two spring training starts last year before the procedure. Prior to his injury, he posted an 8-5 record with a 3.41 ERA in 17 starts for the Yankees in 2025, and was 1-0 with a 2.17 ERA in five postseason appearances. Manager Aaron Boone has previously indicated that Cole might return before being fully built up to a 100-pitch count. Cole's next rehab appearance is anticipated for early next week.
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