Yankees' Pitchers Cole and Rodón Make Encouraging Rehab Progress

Ace Gerrit Cole and lefty Carlos Rodón could return to the mound sooner than expected after Tommy John and elbow surgeries.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:26am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured motion of a baseball pitcher's windup and delivery, with overlapping planes in muted navy, green, and orange tones.The Yankees' pitching staff looks to regain its form as star hurlers Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón make progress in their injury recoveries.Today in Tampa

The New York Yankees' spring training has brought some positive news on the injury front, with star pitchers Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón making encouraging progress in their respective recoveries. Both pitchers were spotted throwing side-by-side, and manager Aaron Boone provided updates indicating they could return to the team earlier than anticipated.

Why it matters

The Yankees were plagued by injuries last season, so the potential return of Cole and Rodón would be a major boost to their pitching rotation and playoff aspirations. Fans are eager to see the team's aces back on the mound, and their recoveries will be closely watched as the team aims to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign.

The details

Rodón is reportedly ahead of schedule and could return to the team as soon as late April, while Cole has already thrown multiple bullpen sessions and is on track to face hitters soon, potentially even appearing in Grapefruit League games before spring training ends. The Yankees are taking a cautious approach with Cole, ensuring he is fully recovered before returning to the mound.

  • On Wednesday, Cole and Rodón were spotted throwing side-by-side during spring training.
  • Rodón is expected to return to the team in late April, ahead of the original timeline.
  • Cole has already thrown multiple bullpen sessions and could appear in Grapefruit League games before the end of spring training.

The players

Gerrit Cole

The Yankees' ace pitcher who is recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Carlos Rodón

The Yankees' left-handed pitcher who is recovering from elbow surgery.

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees.

Anthony Volpe

The Yankees' shortstop who is recovering from shoulder surgery.

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What they’re saying

“Rodón is ahead of schedule and could be back as early as late April.”

— Aaron Boone, Manager, New York Yankees

What’s next

The Yankees will continue to closely monitor the progress of Cole and Rodón, with the goal of having both pitchers fully healthy and ready to contribute to the team's playoff push.

The takeaway

The Yankees' pitching staff has been hit hard by injuries in recent years, so the potential return of Cole and Rodón ahead of schedule is a welcome development for the team and its fans. Their recoveries will be closely watched as the Yankees aim to bounce back and contend for a World Series title.