A Careful Call for Cole’s Comeback
The New York Yankees are carefully managing the return of ace pitcher Gerrit Cole to their rotation. The winner of the 2023 American League Cy Young Award is all set to appear in his first match of the season against the Baltimore Orioles this Wednesday night. However, the Yankees are closely monitoring Cole’s performance as his full strength is still a work in progress.
The pre-game press meet was addressed by Yankees’ bench coach Brad Ausmus with the team’s manager Aaron Boone being unavailable due to a personal engagement. “Cole is undeniably strong enough for a start but we will keep a close eye on him,” Ausmus expressed. He highlighted a common goal of having Cole in top shape for the entire season.
Recovering from Inflammation and Edema
Cole’s journey back to the mound was a lengthy one. Reportedly, he was diagnosed with inflammation and edema in his right elbow about three months ago during spring training. He got back into the hustle on April 8 and hit the mound for a throw by May 4. Subsequently, he progressed through three minor league rehab starts from June 4 and maintained a 0.73 ERA with 19 strikeouts in 12.1 innings. The well-earned victories have instilled a sense of recovery and heightened readiness.
Reflecting on good days, Cole admitted, “The recovery feels like it’s coming together. The closer and closer you get, the more excited you get.” He proved his claims with impressive 10 strikeouts over 4.1 innings for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Friday.
Building Up for Major League Baseball
Cole is likely to deliver 80-85 pitches on Wednesday as he adapts to the Major League Baseball level again. The priority, however, remains his overall health over winning the game.
His return promises a massive fillip for the Yankees’ starting rotation, which already boasts of a 2.90 ERA, the best amongst the MLB staff. This comes at a particularly vital time when the Orioles are just 1.5 games behind the Yankees in the division stakes.
A Win-Win Situation
Cole’s reinstatement replaces Cody Poteet, who recently suffered a right tricep strain, leading to a stint on the injury list. Interestingly, the switch was already planned before Poteet’s injury. Cole, now in his fifth season under a nine-year, $324 million contract with the Yankees, is a significant asset. He has a record of 15-4, with a 2.63 ERA and 222 strikeouts across 209 innings in 2023.
While recuperating, Cole didn’t restrict himself to the sidelines. Instead, he embodied a mentor’s role for his Yankees’ teammates, providing valuable insights. While his physical presence on-field will indeed be missed once a week, his colleagues affirm the necessity of his return to the rotation.
Thus, Gerrit Cole’s comeback seems of paramount importance, both for himself and the Yankees. His unwavering determination to recover and contribute is a testament to his commitment. Fans and teammates alike eagerly await his performance this Wednesday night, under the illuminated Yankee Stadium and the watchful eyes of the world.