Yankees' Gerrit Cole Set for Spring Training Debut vs. Red Sox

Ace pitcher returns from injury as Yankees aim to bounce back in 2026 season

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:40pm

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New York Yankees starting pitcher Gerrit Cole is set to make his spring training debut on Wednesday against the Boston Red Sox. Cole missed the entire 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery but is working his way back and could rejoin the Yankees' rotation as soon as June 2026.

Why it matters

Cole's return is a crucial storyline for the Yankees, who are looking to bounce back after an early playoff exit in 2025 without their ace. The Yankees brought back most of their roster, signaling they believe this team can win a championship, and a healthy Cole could be the missing piece to propel them back to the World Series.

The details

Cole is scheduled to pitch one inning against the Red Sox on Wednesday as part of his spring training buildup. The former AL Cy Young winner has been working sessions with the team all spring in preparation for his return. The Yankees are not rushing Cole and have spoken about letting him get plenty of rest before rejoining the rotation, with a potential return as soon as June.

  • Cole is set to make his spring training debut on Wednesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Cole missed the entire 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery.

The players

Gerrit Cole

New York Yankees starting pitcher who is returning from Tommy John surgery and is set to make his spring training debut.

New York Yankees

Major League Baseball team that is looking to bounce back in 2026 after an early playoff exit in 2025 without their ace pitcher Gerrit Cole.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

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