Aaron Boone Announces Gerrit Cole Update Before Yankees Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Apr 7, 2026 8:36 PM ET

The New York Yankees pitching staff is off to a strong start this year, and that is without arguably its most important piece in right-hander Gerrit Cole. The 35-year-old veteran has not pitched in an MLB game since October of 2024 after undergoing Tommy John surgery at spring training last year.

However, since then, Cole has made significant progress and has been able to regain his velocity during his rehab.

Cole even made an appearance during the final day of camp this year. With the Yankees looking to make a push for the postseason once again this year, anticipation is starting to build for Cole’s return to the starting rotation.

New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole (45)© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

New York is off to a strong start even without Cole, showing the team has plenty of depth even without its injured ace. Through their first nine games, the Yankees have dropped just two.

Ahead of Tuesday’s game against the Athletics at home, manager Aaron Boone spoke with reporters and shared an update on Cole’s status.

“Aaron Boone said Gerrit Cole threw yesterday. If all continues to go well, he’s scheduled to face batters again on Sunday. #Yankees,” reported Gary Phillips of NY Daily News Sports.

With Cole set to face batters again over the weekend, he remains on track to hopefully return by the end of May. With the Yankees having plenty of depth, there is no reason to rush Cole back, as the priority is getting him healthy and at full strength with less mileage heading into October.

Aaron Boone said Gerrit Cole threw yesterday. If all continues to go well, he’s scheduled to face batters again on Sunday. #Yankees
— Gary Phillips (@GaryHPhillips) April 7, 2026

Cole remains one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation. Through 12 seasons in his career, Cole has collected a Cy Young Award, six All-Star selections and two ERA titles.

Cole owns a career 3.18 ERA along with 2,251 strikeouts in 1,954 innings of work during his time with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Houston Astros and of course the Yankees. He is still signed through the 2028 season on a nine-year, $324 million deal.

If his recovery continues without setbacks, the Yankees can feel increasingly confident that their ace will return in time to impact the season and help the club reach the World Series again.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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