New York Yankees ace and reigning 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, ruling him out for the entire 2025 MLB season. The Yankees made the announcement on Monday, confirming that Dr. Neal ElAttrache will perform the procedure on Tuesday.
Cole, 34, experienced elbow discomfort during a spring training outing on Thursday, prompting further medical evaluation. An MRI on Friday confirmed the necessity of Tommy John surgery, a procedure that generally requires a 12-to-18-month recovery period. This development leaves his long-term future as a dominant MLB pitcher in uncertainty.
Cole’s Statement: Determined to Return Stronger
Following the news, Cole shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, expressing his commitment to recovery and his ongoing dream of winning a World Series with the Yankees:
"From the time I first dreamed of wearing the Yankees uniform, my goal has always been to help bring a World Series championship to New York. That dream hasn’t changed—I still believe in it, and I’m more determined than ever to achieve it.
Today, the most respected medical experts in the field recommend that I undergo Tommy John surgery. This isn’t the news any athlete wants to hear, but it’s the necessary next step for my career.
I have a lot left to give, and I’m fully committed to the work ahead. I’ll attack my rehab every day and support the 2025 Yankees each step of the way. I love this game, I love competing, and I can’t wait to be back on the mound—stronger than ever.
See you soon
Yankees’ Rotation Faces Major Setbacks
Cole’s absence is a massive setback for the Yankees, who were expected to have a deep and competitive pitching staff heading into spring training. The loss comes just a week after the team announced that Luis Gil, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, will be sidelined for at least three months due to a high-grade lat strain.
With two key pitchers now unavailable, the Yankees’ rotation will see a significant shake-up. Marcus Stroman, initially considered to be on the outside looking in for a five-man rotation, is now expected to take on a starting role. The current projected rotation includes:
- Carlos Rodón
- Max Fried
- Clarke Schmidt
- Marcus Stroman
- TBD (Fifth Starter Needed)
The Yankees will likely explore internal options or potential free-agent signings to fill the final rotation spot.
Additional Injury Concerns for the Yankees
The Yankees are also dealing with significant injuries in their lineup. Designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is battling tendinitis in both elbows, preventing him from taking swings in spring training. He recently underwent platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment for the second time, but there’s no clear timeline for his return.
Additionally, infielder DJ LeMahieu is dealing with a left calf strain, keeping him out of baseball activities. On March 6, he stated that it would be at least "a couple of weeks" before he can resume training.
Yankees Open Season Without Cole on March 27
The Yankees’ 2025 season opener is scheduled for March 27 at Yankee Stadium, where they will face the Milwaukee Brewers. With their ace out for the season and other key players recovering from injuries, the Yankees will need to quickly adjust their roster and rely on depth to remain competitive.
As Cole begins his rehabilitation, all eyes will be on the Yankees to see how they navigate this challenging season without their star pitcher.