...
By Drew VonScio
Contributing Sports Writer
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The New York Yankees know their starting rotation next season is going to look much different than it did this year as Gerrit Cole will be back.
While it's very unlikely Cole will be ready to go for opening day, he is supposed to return in the first half of the season barring any setbacks during his rehab. His presence alone will bolster the pitching staff that was very short at times this past season.
On Wednesday, Yankees fans received an even more encouraging update regarding Cole's recovery.
Read More on MLB
...
"Gerrit (Cole) just sent me film (Tuesday) of him throwing," Chris Kirschner wrote on X after speaking to agent Scott Boras. "He is excited. He’s in great shape. He has all weapons available. He’s a remarkably durable true No. 1. I don’t think any of us see any limits on him going forward for the years to come."
The Yankees know just how important it is to have Cole back in the rotation. He recorded a 3.41 ERA in 17 starts for New York in 2024 before the injury, but he posted a 2.63 ERA in 33 starts in 2023 which was his last full year of work.
It would not be until 2027 that Cole starts 30-plus games for the Bronx Bombers, but any number of starts they can get out of him next season would be a step forward. Pairing him at the top of the starting rotation with the left-handed duo of Carlos Rodon and Max Fried would give the Yankees one of the best rotations in baseball.
That's not to say the Yankees shouldn't still add to the rotation via free agency, because they absolutely should. As it was witnessed with the New York Mets this past season, you can never have too much starting pitching. Adding a pitcher who could work as a No. 3 starter until Cole returns and then move into the No. 4 spot would be ideal for general manager Brian Cashman and the Yankees.
More MLB: Blue Jays Could be in Closer Market After Latest Jeff Hoffman Update
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines