New York’s rotation, once seen as a strength, has been challenged recently, notably by Mike Trout’s home run barrage at Yankee Stadium. The group has posted a 4.90 ERA over its last 10 games, highlighting the urgency of Cole’s return.
Cole missed the entire 2025 season after undergoing the procedure in spring training and did not pitch in the postseason, though he played a pivotal role in helping the Yankees reach the World Series in 2024.
According to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, Cole will face the Phillies’ Double-A Reading affiliate at approximately 6:35 p.m. ET and is expected to throw around 40 pitches in this rehab outing at Somerset.
A healthy Cole back in the rotation could provide a significant boost, potentially limiting the damage from home runs and stabilizing New York’s pitching staff as they contend for a playoff spot and aim to retake the AL East lead from the Rays.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on how quickly Cole can transition from a 40-pitch rehab start to live-game action in the majors and how soon he can be integrated back into the Yankees’ rotation without risking further setbacks.
