New York Yankees Gerrit Cole is set to make his first season appearance after completing rehab for his elbow injury. Cole won the American League (AL) Cy Young Award in 2023.
MLB announced on June 18, “Cole will be removed from the injured list and start in the game against the Baltimore Orioles on June 20.” The game will be held at the Yankees’ home field, Yankee Stadium, in New York.
Cole is a right-handed ace representing the big leagues.
In his Major League career, he has appeared in 300 games, with a record of 145 wins, 75 losses, and an average earned run average (ERA) of 3.17. Last season, he received the Cy Young Award for outstanding performance with 15 wins, 4 losses, an average ERA of 2.63, and a WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) of 0.98. The Cy Young Award is given to the best pitcher in the Major Leagues. However, his start was delayed this March after complaining of elbow pain during spring training camp.
Cole confirmed his physical condition in the recent three minor league rehabilitation games. He pitched 12⅓ innings, allowing only 2 runs (1 earned run).
He struck out 19 batters without giving up a walk, signaling that he has regained his form. Improving his game sense, Cole has now set a schedule for his return to the Major Leagues.
Currently leading the American League East Division with a 50-24 record, the Yankees are expected to have a more stable starting mound with Cole’s return.
The Yankees have Carlos Rodon (9 wins, 3 losses), Luis Gil (9 wins, 1 loss), and Marcus Stroman (6 wins, 3 losses) performing well in the starting lineup.