Yankees Star Gerrit Cole Shares Sweet Stories From Dad Life and Rehab

“Left-handed. I haven’t thrown anything with my right hand,” Cole admitted when asked about his throwing progression. “But it’s been good for Caden. He’s a left-handed hitter, so, you know — exposing him left-on-left.”

Caden was born during Cole’s first season with the Yankees, in June of 2020. He played T-ball this season on a team with Carlos Rodon’s son, Bo, coached by Amy Cole. He said it was great that he was able to watch their first Little League games.

“Bo (Rodon) was most improved,” Cole offered.

Later, analyst Todd Frazier warned Cole about what’s to come. Frazier said “just wait when all the parents are watching and the former big leaguer can’t throw a strike.” during coach-pitch little league. Cole laughed.

Cole explained that when he throws batting practice with his son and his friends, he asks the kids to take a practice swing before he pitches. That way, he can see their swing path and “lob it in” for maximum contact. It’s a very Gerrit Cole move — part scouting report, part Sandlot.

After the March Tommy John surgery, Cole is not expected back until next season. He said that he is “closer to playing catch than surgery now.”

Cole offered interesting insight into fellow pitchers Will Warren, Clarke Schmidt and Max Fried. He also had some interesting comments on his approach and preparation to pitching. 

Unfortunately, no one asked him about Rafael Devers being traded out of the American League East.