Yankees’ top pitcher Gerrit Cole is set to pitch from a mound on Saturday for the first time since he got hurt during spring training.
“We’ll see if that’s a full bullpen or something else,” explained New York manager Aaron Boone before Friday’s game against Detroit. “So far, his progression has been positive, ticking off all the necessary steps and throwing with increasing intensity. Getting back on the mound will be another important milestone.”
Boone expressed eagerness about Cole’s return, saying, “We’re excited to have him back in action.”
Right-handed reliever Nick Burdi, recovering from right hip inflammation, is expected to pitch for Somerset on Sunday. Depending on his performance, he could return from the injured list after one or two rehab appearances in the minors.
Yankees’ reliever Tommy Kahnle, dealing with right shoulder inflammation, is likely to start a rehab assignment after a couple more sessions of live batting practice. His next practice session is scheduled for Saturday.
Last season, Cole had an impressive record of 15 wins and 4 losses with a leading ERA of 2.63 in the American League. He recorded 222 strikeouts in 209 innings across 33 starts. Cole, a six-time All-Star, is currently in the fifth year of his $324 million, nine-year contract, earning an annual salary of $36 million.
Cole has the option to become a free agent after this season, but if he chooses to opt-out, the Yankees can prevent this by offering a guaranteed $36 million salary for the 2029 season.
