Gerrit Cole's Season Debut: Sharpening Skills Amid Rust
NEW YORK -- New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole made his long-awaited season debut in a divisional clash against the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday. His performance lived up to expectations: sharp yet slightly rusty, and decidedly brief.
Earlier in the season, the reigning Cy Young Award winner was diagnosed with nerve irritation and edema in his right elbow. Given this, Cole was carefully monitored during his first appearance, limited to four-plus innings. He allowed two runs on three hits at Yankee Stadium. Despite being away from the mound for an extended period, the 34-year-old right-hander showcased his prowess, compiling five strikeouts, issuing only one walk, and throwing a total of 62 pitches.
His fastball touched 97 mph, inducing six swing-and-misses. Yankees manager Aaron Boone refrained from disclosing any specifics regarding Cole's pitch limit before the game, aiming to maintain a competitive edge against the Orioles. It was evident that Cole would not have the same extensive pitch count he typically enjoys. He had only been permitted to throw 68 pitches over 4⅓ innings in his third and final rehab start on Friday.
A Rocky Start
The Orioles managed to inflict most of their damage against Cole in the first inning. Gunnar Henderson led off with a one-hopper that bounced off second baseman Gleyber Torres' glove, which was ruled a double. Two batters later, Ryan O'Hearn slashed a slider for a two-out, RBI ground-rule double on an 0-2 count. Cole quickly regrouped, demonstrating his resilience. In the second inning, he needed just seven pitches to retire the side.
He issued a one-out walk to Henderson in the third. Henderson stole second base on the next pitch but was stranded as Cole recorded his first three strikeouts of the season in that inning.
Finding His Rhythm
In the fourth inning, Cole retired the side in order, showcasing two strikeouts on 16 pitches. Taking the mound for the fifth inning, he eventually surrendered a first-pitch single to Cedric Mullins. Subsequently, Cole was pulled for reliever Ron Marinaccio. Marinaccio yielded a two-run home run to Ramon Urias, accounting for the second run charged to Cole.
Cole's performance, though not flawless, demonstrated his capability to return to form.
Looking Ahead
As the Yankees continue their season, Cole's return adds a significant boost to the team. His performance on Wednesday showcased glimpses of his elite form. The focus remains on gradually building his pitch count and ensuring a cautious progression in his outings. The Yankees' decision to take a conservative approach with Cole underscores their commitment to preserving his long-term health and effectiveness.
Cole's resilience and ability to adapt will be crucial as the Yankees navigate through the season. His performance against the Orioles serves as a promising indication of what lies ahead for both Cole and the team.
"We'll build him conservatively here to get him built up," Boone said.
"And, frankly, with all our guys, we'll kind of see where they're at and what we feel like makes the most sense."
"I don't necessarily think it'll be extra moving forward. It'll just be about conservatively getting [the pitches] up."
"But, then again, listening to each start, too, to see where he is."
While Cole's debut was a mix of sharp pitches and signs of rust, it affirms that his recovery is on the right track. With careful management and gradual increases in workload, Gerrit Cole is poised to regain his form and contribute significantly to the Yankees' pitching rotation. As the team progresses through the season, having their ace back on the mound—albeit conservatively—provides a much-needed boost for New York’s playoff aspirations.