Yankees Ace Gerrit Cole Completes First Rehab Outing

Pitcher makes progress in recovery from Tommy John surgery

Apr. 18, 2026 at 6:43pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fractured motion of a baseball pitcher throwing a pitch, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange colors.Gerrit Cole's return from Tommy John surgery takes a major step forward with a strong first minor league rehab outing.Somerset Today

New York Yankees star pitcher Gerrit Cole completed his first minor league rehab start for Double-A Somerset, throwing 4 1/3 innings less than 24 hours ago. Cole, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2025, was pleased with his performance as he continues his recovery and works towards a return to the major leagues.

Why it matters

Cole's successful rehab outing is an important milestone in his comeback from the career-threatening Tommy John surgery. As one of the Yankees' top pitchers, his return will be a major boost to the team's playoff hopes this season.

The details

In his rehab start for the Somerset Patriots, Cole threw 65 pitches and reported no issues with his surgically repaired elbow. He struck out 5 batters and allowed 2 runs over 4 1/3 innings of work. The Yankees will continue to closely monitor Cole's progress as he works his way back to the big leagues.

  • Gerrit Cole completed his first minor league rehab start on April 17, 2026.

The players

Gerrit Cole

A star pitcher for the New York Yankees who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2025, sidelining him for the entire season.

Somerset Patriots

The Double-A minor league affiliate of the New York Yankees, where Cole is currently rehabbing.

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What they’re saying

“I felt really good out there today. The arm felt strong and I'm pleased with the progress I've made in my recovery.”

— Gerrit Cole

What’s next

Cole will continue his minor league rehab assignment, with the goal of rejoining the Yankees' starting rotation in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Gerrit Cole's successful first rehab outing is an encouraging sign for the Yankees as they look to get their ace back on the mound and make a push for the playoffs this season.