Gerrit Cole is tweaking his spring approach to avoid the slow start that plagued him last season. The Yankees’ ace has already made subtle but significant changes to his preparation routine.
Cole’s adjusting after elbow inflammation derailed the first half of his 2023 campaign. Once he returned to form, he dominated – but getting there took longer than anyone wanted.
The changes seem to be working. MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch reports Cole’s ahead of schedule compared to last spring:
Cole continued his throwing program throughout the winter and said he is “slightly ahead” of where he was last February, having already faced hitters once in live situations and set to do so again on Thursday. Blake said that the club is tracking Cole’s velocity progression more closely than in the past, and that he is already sitting 92-94 mph, touching 95 mph.
That’s encouraging news for the Yankees. Their $324 million ace was virtually unhittable after finding his rhythm post All-Star break last year, going 6-4 with a 2.76 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 71.2 innings. His 1.02 WHIP showed just how dominant he was.
Cole carried that momentum into October, posting a 2.17 ERA across five postseason starts. He struck out 22 while walking 10 in 29 innings of high-pressure baseball.
The Yankees need Cole at his best from day one this season. With Max Fried now slotting in as the No. 2 starter, New York has the makings of an elite rotation – if everyone stays healthy.
That’s where Cole’s modified routine comes in. The AL East looks as competitive as ever, and a strong start from their ace could be the difference in what’s shaping up to be a fascinating pennant race.