The New York Yankees starting rotation could be dealt a devastating blow before the season even begins. Their ace, Gerrit Cole, has been advised to undergo Tommy John surgery, according to MLB analyst and former general manager Jim Bowden.
Cole is currently seeking a second opinion before making a final decision. But if he opts for the procedure, it would sideline him for more than a year.
The right-hander reported discomfort in his pitching elbow after his start on Thursday against the Minnesota Twins, where he gave up six runs over 2 2/3 innings.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Cole admitted he was “concerned” about his right elbow. Bowden’s reporting explains why.
A Recurring Issue
Cole experienced similar elbow discomfort last spring. After consulting with doctors, he avoided surgery but began the season on the injured list. He returned on June 19 and finished the season with an 8-5 record and a 3.41 ERA.
Following last year’s World Series, Cole exercised his opt-out clause in the nine-year, $324 million contract he signed with the Yankees in December 2019. Just two days later, he decided to remain with the team under the existing deal, which runs through 2028.
The Battered Bronx Bombers
Cole’s injury is the latest in a string of setbacks for the Yankees this spring.
Luis Gil, the 2024 American League Rookie of the Year, is out until at least June with a lat strain. Gil, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022, was added to the rotation last year after Cole was sidelined. Now, the Yankees will be without both pitchers until at least midseason.
Giancarlo Stanton, no stranger to the injured list, is also out indefinitely with tennis elbow in both arms. According to Brian Hoch of MLB.com, Stanton has not swung a bat since mid-January.
The Yankees’ Options
The revamped Yankees lineup, with additions of Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt — has enough offensive power to make them postseason contenders — if captain Aaron Judge remains healthy.
The Yankees will move Judge to right field this season to reduce wear and tear on their most valuable player. Stanton’s injury also clears the designated hitter spot for Judge to use more often.
The starting rotation is now the team’s chief vulnerability. Max Fried, who signed with the team in the offseason on an eight-year, $218 million deal, will now step up as the No. 1 starter.
Rookie Will Warren, who has impressed in spring training, could be added to the rotation. Starter Marcus Stroman, who the Yankees were reportedly shopping around to trade, is now indispensable.
But the Yankees may have to take additional steps to bolster their pitching staff, potentially even trading top prospects — including outfielder Jasson Dominguez.
Globely News covers the game changers transforming the worlds of business, sports, politics, and technology. From AI and electric vehicles to the rise of China and the NFL's next stars, we've got you covered.