Gerrit Cole Shows Promising Velocity in First Live Batting Practice Since Tommy John Surgery

TAMPA, Fla. — Fresh York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole reached 96.9 mph during his first live batting practice session since undergoing Tommy John surgery last March, signaling a positive step in his recovery. The session took place Friday at the Yankees’ spring training facility.

Recovery and Progress

Cole faced three batters – Trent Grisham, Aaron Judge, and Jasson Domínguez – throwing approximately 20 pitches. Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake described Cole as “sharp” during the session according to The Athletic. He struck out Grisham with a 95 mph fastball and induced a groundball from Judge.

Velocity and Mechanics

Even as Cole started with pitches around 90-91 mph, he increased his velocity, reaching 97 mph during the session as reported by The Athletic. He has also adjusted his pitching mechanics, now bringing his hands over his head, a change from his previous motion where he stopped at chest level as noted by the Associated Press.

Recovery Timeline

The Yankees anticipate Cole will be ready to return sometime between May and September, aligning with the typical 14- to 18-month recovery period following Tommy John surgery according to the Associated Press. Cole underwent the surgery on March 10, 2025, after experiencing elbow discomfort as reported by ESPN.

Previous Injury and Surgery

Cole previously experienced elbow pain in March 2025 but was diagnosed with nerve irritation and edema, allowing him to pitch through the World Series. However, further evaluation revealed a torn ulnar collateral ligament, necessitating Tommy John surgery according to ESPN.

Cole’s last official game appearance was in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series on October 30th as reported by the Associated Press.