🚨 YANKEES EXPLORING POSSIBILITY OF GERRIT COLE PITCHING IN SPRING TRAINING GAME 👇

The New York Yankees could have Gerrit Cole back on the mound sooner than expected, a welcomed development as the team gears up for the 2026 MLB season. After a tough setback in 2025, when Cole was sidelined due to Tommy John surgery, it has been a long road to recovery for the ace pitcher. Missing the entirety of 2025, Cole has been working diligently to get back to his All-Star form. Now, as spring training progresses, there’s growing optimism that Cole could return earlier than anticipated.

Cole’s Progress and Upcoming Milestones

According to YES Network’s Jack Curry, Cole and the Yankees are exploring the possibility of having Cole pitch in a Spring Training game. This is a significant milestone in his recovery journey. Recently, Cole threw 35 pitches in a live bullpen session and is scheduled to throw again in six days, continuing his progression toward full readiness for the regular season. The idea of Cole taking the mound in a Spring Training game would be a major step forward, and it’s something fans and analysts had not expected to happen so soon.

The Impact of Cole’s Return

Cole’s return to the Yankees is crucial for the team, as they look to make a run at the World Series in 2026. In 2024, Cole played a key role in the team’s postseason success, posting a 3.41 ERA in 17 regular-season starts, and stepping up during the postseason with a 2.17 ERA in five starts. His 22 strikeouts in 29 innings were critical in helping the Yankees make a deep playoff run, and with the team aiming for their 30th championship, Cole’s return is more important than ever.

Yankees’ Pitching Challenges in 2025

The Yankees’ pitching staff faced a tough year in 2025, with Cole’s injury being the first blow. Fellow pitcher Clarke Schmidt also required Tommy John surgery in July 2025, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season and could keep him out for much of 2026 as well. Additionally, Carlos Rodón, another key piece of the Yankees’ rotation, underwent surgery at the start of the offseason to address a bone spur and remove loose bodies from his arm. While Rodón’s recovery is expected to be quicker than Cole’s and Schmidt’s, he still won’t return to games until May.

With Cole and Schmidt both on the mend, the Yankees will rely on Max Fried, who led the MLB in wins in 2025, to be a leader in the rotation. Cam Schlittler, a fan favorite who made his MLB debut in the middle of 2025, will also play a key role. Other pitchers, including Ryan Weathers, acquired in an offseason trade with the Miami Marlins, and Will Warren and Luis Gil, are expected to help fill out the starting rotation.

Cole’s Potential Impact on the Yankees’ 2026 Season

The Yankees’ pitching depth will be tested in 2026, but the potential return of Rodón and Cole as soon as possible could make all the difference. Having Cole back in the rotation would add a crucial arm to the Yankees’ pitching staff, boosting the team’s chances of contending for the World Series. If Cole is able to pitch in a Spring Training game and show he’s ready, the Yankees could get their ace back much sooner than expected.

Looking Ahead

With Cole’s recovery on track, the Yankees are hoping for a smooth return to form as the season begins. If everything goes according to plan in Spring Training, Gerrit Cole could be back on the mound for the Yankees ASAP, giving the team the boost they need in the rotation. The Yankees’ pursuit of a championship in 2026 could hinge on the success of their veteran pitchers, and Cole’s return would be a major step in securing their playoff aspirations.

Key Takeaways:

• Gerrit Cole is progressing well in his recovery from Tommy John surgery and could pitch in a Spring Training game soon.

• Cole’s return is critical for the Yankees as they aim for their 30th championship.

• The Yankees will rely on pitchers like Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, and Cam Schlittler until Cole and Rodón return to full strength.

• Cole’s early return could give the Yankees the pitching boost they need for a deep playoff run.