Yankees fans received some much-anticipated news on the pitching front Saturday, as manager Aaron Boone provided updates on the rehab progress of two key rotation pieces: ace Gerrit Cole and left-hander Carlos Rodón.
The reigning AL Cy Young winner, Gerrit Cole, took a major step forward Friday night in his first rehab start for Double-A Somerset. Cole worked 4.1 innings, allowing three runs on three hits while striking out three. Most importantly, he stretched out to 44 pitches, with 36 finding the strike zone—a promising sign of command for a pitcher working his way back from elbow inflammation.
Boone, who reviewed footage of the outing, noted Cole's velocity sat in the 95-96 mph range and that he effectively mixed in his changeup and curveball. "All in all, I think another good step for him," Boone said. However, the manager emphasized patience, indicating Cole will need several more minor league starts to build up his innings and durability for the long haul. A disciplined approach is key for a pitcher coming off a season with no competitive innings.
Meanwhile, there's positive movement on Carlos Rodón's front as well. The big left-hander, crucial to the Yankees' championship aspirations, is scheduled for a significant live bullpen session Saturday, targeting 55-60 pitches. A successful session could clear the way for him to begin a formal rehab assignment shortly after.
Rodón's path back has been complicated, first by elbow surgery recovery and then a hamstring issue, but he appears to be back on track. Boone estimates Rodón will need roughly three minor league outings before rejoining the big-league club, potentially putting him ahead of Cole in the return timeline, though he's still likely a few weeks away.
For a Yankees team looking to solidify its rotation for a deep postseason run, the steady progress of its two frontline starters is the best kind of mid-season development. The Bronx faithful will be watching closely, ready to gear up in their pinstripes when these aces finally return to the mound at Yankee Stadium.