Yankees' Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón Near Rehab Assignments

Shortstop Anthony Volpe also nearing return from shoulder surgery

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:21pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the motion of a baseball pitcher, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the various angles and perspectives of the pitching motion.The Yankees' pitching staff and infield are set to receive a major boost with the impending returns of key players from injury.Today in Tampa

The New York Yankees' pitching staff is set to receive a major boost in the coming weeks, with starting pitchers Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón both nearing the start of rehab assignments as they recover from injuries. Additionally, shortstop Anthony Volpe is also close to beginning a rehab stint as he works his way back from offseason shoulder surgery.

Why it matters

The return of Cole and Rodón will provide a significant lift to the Yankees' already formidable pitching rotation, which has been the team's strength early in the 2026 season. Volpe's return at shortstop will also be a welcome development, as the Yankees have struggled offensively at that position in his absence.

The details

Manager Aaron Boone stated that both Cole and Rodón could begin rehab assignments within the next week, after each threw three innings in live batting practice sessions over the past two days. Cole, recovering from Tommy John surgery, threw 42 pitches on Sunday, while Rodón, who had elbow surgery to remove bone chips in October, tossed 50 pitches on Monday. The team has targeted late April or early May for Rodón's return, with Cole expected to follow about a month later.

  • On Sunday, Gerrit Cole threw 42 pitches in a live batting practice session.
  • On Monday, Carlos Rodón threw 50 pitches in a live batting practice session.
  • The Yankees have targeted a late April or early May return for Rodón, with Cole expected to follow about a month later.

The players

Gerrit Cole

A 35-year-old starting pitcher for the New York Yankees who is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is nearing a rehab assignment.

Carlos Rodón

A 33-year-old starting pitcher for the New York Yankees who is recovering from elbow surgery and is also nearing a rehab assignment.

Anthony Volpe

The Yankees' 23-year-old shortstop who is recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and is close to beginning a rehab assignment.

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees.

Brian Cashman

The general manager of the New York Yankees.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I don't have an opinion one way or the other. I just want to make sure we do what's right, really. So I think we're just taking in a little bit more information over the next couple of days before we make that call.”

— Gerrit Cole

What’s next

If cleared by Dr. Christopher Ahmad, Anthony Volpe is expected to play shortstop in four games for Double-A Somerset this week as part of his rehab assignment.

The takeaway

The impending returns of Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Anthony Volpe represent a significant boost for the Yankees, who have the best pitching staff in baseball but have struggled offensively at shortstop in Volpe's absence. Their recoveries will be crucial as the team aims to maintain its strong start and contend for a World Series title.