Gerrit Cole could be out for a long time.
“According to source, Gerrit Cole has been recommended to have TJ surgery… but they are now waiting for a 2nd opinion to confirm the diagnosis,” Bowden reported.
If Cole does need Tommy John, this is a bizarre end to the last year for the Yankees’ ace. Last spring training, Cole flew to California to meet with Dr. Neal ElAttrache for testing on his elbow. He was able to rehab the injury without the season-ending surgery and was solid when he came back. Now, almost exactly a year later, Tommy John is back in the conversation.
This is why the Yankees did not add a fifth year to his contract. They are scared of his long-term health because he has so many innings on his arm. If he does have to have Tommy John surgery, it will put pressure on Max Fried to take the ball at the top of the rotation. Luis Gil is out as well, and Clarke Schmidt got a late start in spring training, so their depth will be tested early in the 2025 season.
