Gerrit Cole: Yankees Star Throws First Bullpen, Eyes May-September Return From Tommy John Surgery

TAMPA, Fla. — Gerrit Cole took a significant step forward in his recovery from Tommy John surgery on Friday, throwing his first bullpen session of spring training for the New York Yankees. The 35-year-old right-hander, who underwent the procedure last March, is currently projected to return to regular-season action sometime between May and September, a timeline that remains consistent with the expected 14-to-18 month recovery period.

The session, held at Steinbrenner Field, was closely monitored by Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who expressed considerable satisfaction with Cole’s progress. “Everything looks like it comes out loose and easy in terms of control,” Boone said. “He looks like he’s in a very good moment. Have you seen a diver who jumps off the high diving board and enters the water and barely makes a splash? That’s Gerrit on the mound.”

Cole himself echoed the positive sentiment, noting a marked improvement in how his elbow feels compared to two years prior. “It feels really good,” he said. “It feels different than it has for quite some time.” The encouraging session included approximately 30 pitches, and Cole is not ruling out the possibility of appearing in exhibition games as he continues to build strength and refine his mechanics.

The Yankees are taking a cautious approach to Cole’s rehabilitation, prioritizing his long-term health over a potentially premature return. Boone emphasized the importance of allowing Cole to regain optimal strength before re-integrating him into the regular season rotation. “We want to make sure we give him adequate time so he’s good and ready to come back, strengthened in a smart way,” Boone explained. “We don’t want to rush things by a couple of starts at the beginning that could affect the overall result.”

Adding an intriguing element to Cole’s comeback is a subtle adjustment to his pitching delivery. He experimented with raising his hands above his head during his windup, a departure from his previous mechanics where he stopped at chest height. Cole indicated that the change felt natural and comfortable. “It feels good,” he said. “Over the summer I was throwing on the back fields and tried it out. I’ve had little quirks that have changed over the years… I think I just like the rhythm.”

This isn’t the first time Cole has returned to throwing during his recovery. He threw his first bullpen session following the surgery in October, and participated in two preseason games in 2025, with his last appearance on March 6th. The road to recovery, however, has been far from straightforward. Cole described the process as “long and tedious,” but acknowledged a growing sense of momentum as he nears his anticipated return. “It’s been long and tedious, like most people’s experience. As we get closer to the end, things are starting to pick up a little momentum,” he said. “I just do exactly what I’m told. So when they tell me to push, I push. When they tell me no, I don’t.”

The Yankees’ decision to relax their facial hair policy last year allowed Cole to pitch with a beard during his bullpen sessions, a small but notable detail reflecting the team’s support during his rehabilitation.

Cole’s absence has undoubtedly been felt by the Yankees, who last saw him in action during Game 5 of the 2024 World Series on October 30th. His return represents a significant boost to the team’s pitching staff and championship aspirations. While the exact date of his return remains uncertain, the encouraging signs from his first bullpen session suggest he is on track to make a substantial impact later this season.

Beyond the physical aspects of his recovery, Cole spoke about the mental and emotional toll of being sidelined. He acknowledged missing the routine and intensity of being a starting pitcher. “Some things have a positive side: you spend more time with family,” Cole said. “I miss that escape from working hard and feeling exhausted every five days.”

The Yankees will continue to closely monitor Cole’s progress throughout spring training, carefully managing his workload and ensuring he is fully prepared for his return to the mound. The team’s cautious approach underscores the importance of having their ace at full strength for the crucial late-season stretch and potential playoff run.