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Gerrit Cole Begins Throwing Programme in Significant Step Towards MLB Return The New York Yankees' franchise pitcher, Gerrit Cole, has begun a critical phase of his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery, signalling a positive milestone as the team navigates the closing stages of the Major League Baseball season without its ace. Cole, who underwent season-ending surgery in March, has commenced a flat-ground throwing programme, a development closely monitored by the club as attention shifts towards their prospects for the 2026 campaign. The six-time All-Star began throwing a baseball roughly six months after undergoing Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) reconstruction, performed by orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache. The procedure, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, typically requires a recovery period of between 12 and 14 months, ruling the right-hander out for the entirety of the 2025 season. This initial phase of the throwing programme involved approximately 20 tosses on flat ground at Yankee Stadium, a seemingly minor step that carries major implications for the pitcher’s long-term health and the team’s planning. Speaking publicly about his progress for the first time since the surgery, Cole offered a concise assessment of the throwing session. According to reports from the YES Network, the pitcher stated that the action “feels great,” a reassuring update for a franchise heavily invested in his future. The progression of the programme is expected to involve gradually increasing the throwing distance and intensity, with the ultimate goal of having Cole pitch from a regulation mound before the conclusion of the calendar year. Following that, he is slated to transition into a typical offseason training routine, with the expectation of joining the team in Spring Training 2026.
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The Context of the Injury The need for surgery emerged during the 2025 Spring Training period after Cole reported discomfort in his right elbow following an exhibition start. The diagnosis of a torn UCL was a substantial blow, compounding concerns after the pitcher had missed the start of the 2024 season due to nerve irritation in the same area. Prior to the definitive diagnosis, Cole had sought second opinions, ultimately confirming the necessity of the complex reconstructive procedure to ensure the longevity of his career. The decision was immediately deemed season-ending, forcing the Yankees' rotation into a state of flux just weeks before Opening Day. The absence of a pitcher of Cole’s calibre immediately created a significant void, particularly given the size of his contract and his position as the undisputed leader of the pitching staff. Cole, who won the American League Cy Young Award in 2023, is currently in the sixth year of a landmark nine-year, $324 million contract, which was designed to anchor the Yankees’ rotation through the end of the decade. His statistical history with the club, which includes a successful 2024 postseason run where he posted a formidable 2. 17 ERA over five starts, underscores the profound difficulty in replacing his contribution. Navigating the Season Without an Ace The ripple effects of Cole’s injury have been profound for the New York club. Heading into the season as strong contenders, the unexpected loss of Cole—coupled with subsequent injuries to other key rotation members—forced the team to rely heavily on depth and mid-season acquisitions.
This instability has been cited by many analysts as a contributing factor to the team’s inconsistent performance, which has seen them fall behind in the competitive AL East division standings late in the year. The mental challenge of the long rehabilitation process for high-calibre athletes is often regarded as equally demanding as the physical recovery. Speaking on Cole’s initial throwing steps, Yankees Manager Aaron Boone emphasised the psychological importance of the milestone. “I’m excited for him,” Boone stated, adding: “He’s done a good job with rehab, and this is one of those cool markers along the way that is significant to hit. ” The comments reflect the focus on incremental success in a recovery path that is fundamentally a test of patience. The pitcher himself has maintained a constant, visible presence in the clubhouse, shifting his role to that of a mentor and strategic resource for the younger members of the rotation. Analyst Perspective and Future Value Baseball analysts are in agreement regarding the irreplaceable nature of Cole’s talent. Rob Friedman, known widely as The Pitching Ninja for his technical analysis of pitchers, previously highlighted Cole’s rare combination of abilities. “He’s a nearly perfect combination of intelligence, competitiveness, constant drive to improve and stuff,” Friedman said. “He’s like a big bully on the mound, while also being incredibly strategic and calculating—with the stuff to match it.
” This combination of psychological edge and elite physical ability is precisely what the Yankees are banking on returning in full force. The financial commitment to Cole, which extends through the 2028 season, underscores the franchise’s belief that he will resume his status as a premier pitcher in the league, even after a major operation. The Outlook for 2026 The commencement of the throwing programme marks the definitive end of the initial, passive recovery phase and the start of active preparation for the 2026 season. While the current campaign is focused on managing the absence and securing a position in the postseason, the primary organizational focus has now shifted to engineering a return to full health for the club’s highest-paid player. The projected return of Gerrit Cole early in the next season would instantly reshape the competitive landscape of the American League, offering the Yankees a dramatic boost to their championship aspirations. However, the nature of Tommy John surgery means the process remains cautious and subject to ongoing evaluation. For both the player and the franchise, the next six months represent a critical waiting game, defined by meticulous monitoring and the hope that the gradual build-up will culminate in the return of a fully healthy ace.
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