New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has opted to withhold discussion regarding ace pitcher Gerrit Cole’s elbow condition. Boone cited the need to confer with general manager Brian Cashman before making any public statements on the matter.
The Yankees revealed on Monday that Cole was encountering difficulties in recovering after spring training starts. Consequently, the 33-year-old right-hander traveled to Los Angeles for evaluation by Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache, renowned for his expertise in elbow injuries. Cole was en route back to Tampa as of Friday.
Although Boone refrained from divulging specifics about Cole’s status, he did announce that Nestor Cortes will assume the role of starter for the March 28 opener against Houston. Cortes expressed confidence in Cole’s ability to bounce back from his setback, labeling it as a “minor setback.”
Cole, entering the fifth season of his hefty $324 million, nine-year contract, holds the option to opt-out after the season and explore free agency. However, the Yankees possess the ability to nullify the opt-out clause by guaranteeing a $36 million salary for 2029.
Meanwhile, center fielder Aaron Judge has delayed his return to the lineup and will sit out Saturday’s game. The 2022 AL MVP underwent an MRI of his abdomen earlier in the week after experiencing a gap in spring training appearances. Judge, optimistic about his progress, expressed confidence in his readiness for opening day.
Regarding Judge’s absence from the lineup, Boone assured that the team is not overly concerned, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing Judge’s long-term health over immediate returns.
Cortes, who delivered a four-inning simulated game on Friday, is set to make one final spring training start next Thursday. Despite the unforeseen circumstances surrounding Cole’s injury, Cortes is prepared to step up as the opening-day starter.
In addition to on-field developments, former Yankees manager Joe Torre made a guest appearance in camp as an instructor. Torre, a key figure in the Yankees’ success from 1996 to 2007, joined the team to provide guidance and share his wealth of experience with the current roster.
Boone expressed gratitude for Torre’s presence and highlighted the invaluable opportunity for players to learn from a legendary figure like Torre. The Yankees are privileged to have Torre’s mentorship during spring training as they prepare for the upcoming season.
