Yankees Ace Gerrit Cole to Face Single-A Hitters

Boone announces Cole's rehab assignment as part of recovery from Tommy John surgery

Apr. 9, 2026 at 6:25pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the various angles and movements of a baseball pitcher's delivery, rendered in a palette of navy, green, and orange.The Yankees' ace Gerrit Cole takes another step in his recovery, facing minor league hitters as he works his way back to the big leagues.NYC Today

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone revealed that star pitcher Gerrit Cole will face Single-A hitters with the Hudson Valley affiliate on Sunday as part of his ongoing rehab from Tommy John surgery. The 35-year-old right-hander has been sidelined since early in the season and is working his way back to the major league roster.

Why it matters

Cole's return is crucial for the Yankees, who have struggled with injuries to key pitchers this season and are looking to make a playoff push. His successful rehab and eventual return to the big-league club would provide a major boost to their starting rotation.

The details

Boone announced Cole's rehab assignment during his pre-game media availability on Thursday, ahead of the Yankees' series finale against the Athletics. The manager said the team wants to get Cole facing live hitters as he nears the final stages of his recovery from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent earlier this year.

  • Cole has been sidelined since early in the 2026 MLB season.
  • He is scheduled to face Single-A hitters with Hudson Valley on Sunday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Gerrit Cole

A 35-year-old right-handed starting pitcher for the New York Yankees who is recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Aaron Boone

The manager of the New York Yankees.

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What they’re saying

“Gerrit Cole will face Single-A hitters with Hudson Valley on Sunday as part of his rehab from Tommy John surgery.”

— Aaron Boone, Manager, New York Yankees

What’s next

If Cole's rehab outing on Sunday goes well, the next step would likely be a higher-level minor league assignment as he continues to build up his pitch count and stamina ahead of a potential return to the Yankees' major league roster.

The takeaway

The Yankees are eagerly awaiting Cole's return from injury, as his presence atop their starting rotation could provide a much-needed boost as they look to secure a playoff berth. His successful rehab and eventual activation will be a key development in their season.