Gerrit Cole Hits 96.9 MPH in First Live Session Since Tommy John Surgery

New York Yankees right-hander Gerrit Cole threw 20 pitches of batting practice on Friday, hitting a maximum velocity of 96.9 mph.

TAMPA, Fla. -- Gerrit Cole reached a peak velocity of 96.9 mph during his first live session against hitters since undergoing Tommy John elbow surgery. The 35-year-old right-hander threw approximately 20 pitches of batting practice on Friday at the New York Yankees' spring training facility. This milestone comes exactly one week after the 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner completed his initial bullpen session. During the Friday workout, Cole faced a trio of teammates: Aaron Judge, Trent Grisham, and Jasson Dominguez. This progression marks a significant step in a Gerrit Cole recovery timeline that the club expects to conclude with a return to the mound between May and September.

Velocity and Mechanics Adjustments

In addition to the 96.9 mph radar reading, the session revealed a notable mechanical change for the veteran pitcher. Cole has altered his windup, now lifting his hands over his head to begin his delivery. This is a shift from his previous pre-injury technique, where he would stop his hands at his chest. Manager Aaron Boone, speaking from Sarasota prior to the Yankees' exhibition opener against the Baltimore Orioles, noted that reports indicated the session went very well. The current recovery window of 14 to 18 months aligns with the targets the pitcher established following his procedure.

Surgical Timeline and Recent History

The road to this 20-pitch session began following Cole's last official appearance on October 30 during Game 5 of the 2024 World Series. Although he attempted to return for the 2025 season, pitching in two spring training contests, his final outing occurred on March 6. Just five days later, on March 11, the ace underwent the reconstructive elbow surgery that sidelined him for the remainder of that year. The Yankees are monitoring his progress closely as he moves past the one-week mark from his first post-operative bullpen.

Future Outlook for the Yankees Rotation

The organization is operating under the expectation that their lead starter will be available for major league action at some point during the middle to late months of the upcoming season. By facing high-caliber hitters like Judge and Dominguez so early in his throwing program, Cole is testing the stability of his repaired ligament against live competition. The 14-to-18-month rehabilitation period remains the primary framework for his return to the Bronx. As the team begins its exhibition schedule in Florida, the focus remains on whether Cole can maintain his high-velocity output while acclimating to his new overhead windup mechanics.