Gerrit Cole might be sidelined for an extended period.
The New York Yankees are entering the season as defending American League champions but without Juan Soto, who moved to the New York Mets. While they made several additions, they knew staying healthy would be key to their success. However, spring training has not been favorable in that regard.
CBS Sports’ Jim Bowden reported Sunday that Yankees ace Gerrit Cole has been advised to undergo Tommy John surgery. However, there’s a twist.
“According to source, Gerrit Cole has been recommended to have TJ surgery… but they are now waiting for a 2nd opinion to confirm the diagnosis,” Bowden reported.
If Cole does require surgery, it marks a strange turn of events over the past year. Last spring training, he traveled to California to consult Dr. Neal ElAttrache for elbow testing. At the time, he managed to rehabilitate the injury without undergoing surgery and performed well upon his return. Now, nearly a year later, Tommy John surgery is once again being considered.
Adding to the situation, Cole opted out of the final four years of his contract after an impressive World Series performance, hoping Yankees GM Brian Cashman would extend the deal by another year. However, the Yankees hesitated, leading Cole to reverse his opt-out decision at the last moment.
This hesitation was largely due to concerns about his long-term health, given the significant number of innings he has pitched. If he does undergo surgery, Max Fried will have to step up as the rotation’s ace. Additionally, with Luis Gil also unavailable, the Yankees’ pitching depth will be tested early in the 2025 season.
