Gerrit Cole is back on the mound, slinging heat at 96.9 mph, and Yankees fans everywhere are holding their breath.
In his first face-off against live hitters since Tommy John surgery, Cole showed that his firepower hadn’t fizzled out. Facing the likes of Aaron Judge and Jasson Domínguez, Cole delivered 20 pitches at the Yankees’ spring training facility in Tampa. This was no simple showcase. It was a declaration: Cole is not done yet. And just like that, hope flickers anew in Yankees universe.
Gerrit Cole faced hitters for the first time since his Tommy John surgery and is already hitting 97 mph.
Adam Ottavino & @JackCurryYES break down Gerrit Cole’s return to the mound. pic.twitter.com/clGez5vmQ1
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) February 21, 2026
Gerrit’s New Groove
Turning the page from injury, Cole is making changes. His windup now sees his hands above his head, a shift from his earlier chest-high pause. It’s a subtle change, but in baseball, the devil’s in the details. He’s got his eyes set on a return window that stretches from May to September, sticking to a recovery timeline of 14 to 18 months post-surgery. This isn’t just about physical readiness. It’s about mentally gearing up for a comeback.
One might ask, why the change in form? It’s about easing strain and preventing another injury, of course. But it’s also about evolution, about finding a path back to the peak of his powers. It’s a smart move, given his last official showing was in the 2024 World Series, which seems eons ago in baseball years.
Spring Training Sparks
Gerrit Cole vs. Judge at Yankees camp. Has touched 97-mph. Struck out Grisham first AB. pic.twitter.com/nBFrysBrdk
— Pete Caldera (@pcaldera) February 20, 2026
So, what does this mean for the Yankees? Cole’s first bullpen session, held a week before his batting practice, had already shown signs of promise. But facing actual hitters? That’s a different ballgame. Manager Aaron Boone had only positive feedback, another sign that the Yankees are banking on their ace’s swift return.
With Cole nearing his 36th birthday, this spring training session was more than just preparation. It was a trial by fire. This was about proving that age and surgery haven’t dulled his edge. For the Yankees, Cole’s performance is the foundation for hopes that have been crumbling in recent seasons.
Countdown to Comeback
When can fans expect to see Cole back in pinstripes? If everything goes as planned, his return could happen in late spring. But let’s face it, Yankees fans are already counting the days. His presence on the mound isn’t just about filling a spot in the rotation. It’s about leadership.
Yet, the Yankees must tread carefully. Rushing him back could spell disaster, not just for Cole but for a team already grappling with enough question marks. The goal is simple: Get him back, but get him back healthy and ready to lead.
Gerrit Cole’s Statement of Intent
Gerrit Cole wasn’t just pitching; he was making a statement. After months of recovery, seeing him clock at 96.9 mph is a victory for Yankees fans. Cole is ready to prove he’s still the ace we signed up for.
Hope Springs Eternal
With Cole back in action, all eyes are set on that potential May return. The Yankees’ pitching staff has missed his dominance. Watching him face Aaron Judge and Jasson Domínguez was a teaser of what could be a promising resurgence.
It’s not every day you see a pitcher bounce back from Tommy John like this. Many doubted, but Cole is making believers out of skeptics one pitch at a time. His revamped windup? Just the cherry on top. Let’s not forget, this is a guy who dominated the league for years.
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