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Yankees' Gerrit Cole News Emerges Amid MLB Offseason

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Nov 12, 2025 2:57 PM ET

The New York Yankees enter the offseason facing key decisions about how to reshape a roster that once again fell short in October, extending their World Series drought to 16 years.

After a 94-win campaign that ended in a disappointing ALDS exit to the Toronto Blue Jays, the front office is expected to be active, yet strategic, as it weighs short-term upgrades against long-term flexibility.

Right-handed starting pitcher Gerrit Cole remains a key storyline entering the 2026 season. The 35-year-old ace missed the entire 2025 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in spring training, but he continues to rehab and is expected to return sometime in the first half of next year.

New York Yankees starting pitcher Gerrit Cole (45)Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

In his last full season in 2024, Cole posted a 3.41 ERA with 99 strikeouts and an 8–5 record over 95 innings of work. He elevated his game in the postseason, delivering dominant outings that reminded fans why he is still one of the best in the league. The Yankees hope he can return to that form, though the path back from surgery at his age will be anything but simple.

As Cole continues to rehab from surgery, he received a prestigious honor on Tuesday night. Cole was named the recipient of the Lou Gehrig Sports Award at The Lou Gehrig Legacy Gala, an annual event hosted by the ALS United Greater New York.

New York Yankees' Gerrit Cole receives the Lou Gehrig Sports Award at The Lou Gehrig Legacy Gala, the signature fundraising event of ALS United Greater New York. pic.twitter.com/dbNa3FE6Sq
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) November 12, 2025

The award is presented to athletes who exemplify the character, courage and integrity of MLB legend Lou Gehrig, both on and off the field. For Cole, it marked a moment of recognition during a challenging year, as he works toward returning to the mound and reclaiming his role as the anchor of the Yankees’ rotation.

A six-time All-Star and Cy Young Award winner, Cole has built one of the most decorated careers of his generation. Yet he is still searching for his first World Series title in the Bronx, the team he grew up rooting for.

Cole has spent 12 seasons in the big leagues, beginning his career with the Pittsburgh Pirates before stints with the Houston Astros and now the Yankees. He remains under contract in New York for three more years beyond 2025, giving the organization a window to capitalize on his return and chase a championship.

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

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