Yankees Ace Gerrit Cole Begins Minor League Rehab

Cole to throw around 45 pitches in first rehab start for Double-A affiliate

Apr. 16, 2026 at 6:57pm

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A fractured, abstract painting depicting the motion and energy of a baseball pitcher's windup and delivery, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in navy, green, and orange hues.The Yankees' ace Gerrit Cole takes the first step in his return from injury, with a rehab start that will test his progress towards rejoining the major league rotation.Somerset Today

New York Yankees right-handed pitcher Gerrit Cole will make his first minor league rehab start on Friday night for the Double-A Somerset Patriots. Cole, who has been sidelined with an injury, is expected to throw around 45 pitches as he works his way back to the major league roster.

Why it matters

Cole's return to the mound is crucial for the Yankees, who have struggled with injuries to their pitching staff this season. As one of the team's top starters, his recovery and successful rehab assignment will be a major boost as the Yankees look to remain competitive in the AL East division race.

The details

In his rehab start, Cole will pitch in the same game as Yankees shortstop prospect Anthony Volpe, who is also working his way back from an injury on the Somerset roster. The Yankees will closely monitor Cole's pitch count and performance as he takes this first step towards rejoining the big-league club.

  • Cole's rehab start will take place on Friday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Gerrit Cole

A right-handed starting pitcher for the New York Yankees who has been sidelined with an injury.

Anthony Volpe

A top shortstop prospect in the Yankees' minor league system who is also rehabbing an injury with the Double-A Somerset Patriots.

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What they’re saying

“Getting Gerrit back on the mound is a big step for us. We're excited to see how he does in this first rehab outing as he works his way back to the big leagues.”

— Aaron Boone, Manager, New York Yankees

What’s next

If Cole's rehab start goes well, he could rejoin the Yankees' starting rotation within the next 2-3 weeks, providing a much-needed boost to their pitching staff.

The takeaway

The Yankees' ability to get their ace Gerrit Cole back from injury will be crucial as they look to stay in contention in the competitive AL East division race. His successful return could provide a major lift for the team down the stretch.