Gerrit Cole Progresses in Recovery After Tommy John Surgery
Yankees ace Gerrit Cole has taken a significant step in his recovery from Tommy John surgery on his right elbow. The pitcher threw 20 pitches from flat ground this Monday, marking a significant milestone in his rehabilitation process.Cole, who underwent surgery with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the Dodgers’ doctor, began his throwing program five months after the intervention. The estimated recovery time for this type of procedure is approximately 14 months. The 34-year-old pitcher, with an impressive record of 153-80 and an ERA of 3.18 in 317 starts, has been preparing for this moment for several weeks. Cole anticipates that his initial progress will extend for a few months before he can pitch from the mound. Subsequently, he will take a break and hopes to have a normal offseason.“It felt really good today,” Cole commented, visibly satisfied after the session. “I had good precision and felt comfortable.”
Gerrit Cole
After the surgery, Cole’s arm was initially in a cast and then with a splint, which was removed in mid-April. Since then, he has been dedicating between 90 minutes and two hours a day to his rehabilitation. In his 12 seasons in the Major Leagues, Cole has pitched 1,954 innings, in addition to 133 ⅓ innings in 22 postseason starts. His surgery involved the reconstruction of the ligament with an internal brace, designed to improve stability. Cole, who has a nine-year, $324 million contract that extends through 2028, has been present in the dugout during home games. He also participated in a YES Network broadcast during a game against the Angels on June 17.“It’s a great day, the first of launches,” Cole added. “I’ve been working for this for weeks. It’s good to be out there and get it done, and have everything go well.”
Gerrit Cole
Cole’s debut in the 2024 season was delayed until June 19 due to nerve irritation and edema in his right elbow. In 17 starts with New York, he had an 8-5 record and a 3.41 ERA, as well as a 1-0 record and a 2.17 ERA in five postseason starts. Cole underwent medical tests after allowing two home runs in his second spring training start on March 6 against Minnesota.“We are excited for him,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “He has done a good job with the rehabilitation, and this is one of those key moments that are important. We are very happy for him.”
Aaron Boone
