The New York Yankees returned to the playoffs for the eighth time in nine seasons. This will be a significant contributor since 2024 when the franchise’s eyes enter the World Series for the second consecutive time.
Right-handed Ace Gerrit Cole will clearly have no Yankees’ playoff roster in 2024, although his presence will be felt in the canoe. The 35-year-old's last appearance was in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series, with his next one as early as 2026.
Where is Cole? Here's what it takes to know about the former Cy Young champion in New York and why he won't be able to help his team pursue a record 28th World Series title.
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Where is Gerrit Cole?
Cole had surgery by Tommy John before this season and was not in the Yankees' 2025 playoff roster.
After the surgery in March, Cole was placed on the 60-day list of injuries, releasing a roster. In the 2025 MLB season, he had no matches at all.
Although Cole is not in the playoff roster, he actively participates in the team. As New York prepares for a wildcard series with the Boston Red Sox, Cole stands inside as a baseman.
Gerrit Cole acts as Yankees' benchmark when Yankees run infield training pic.twitter.com/paxhy4e9uh
– Yankees Video (@snyyankees) September 29, 2025
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Gerrit Cole damage update
Cole underwent surgery at the end of the season on March 11.
Cole said in May he plans to plan during his 14-month recovery period, which will pave the way for him to re-pitch in 2026, banning any setbacks. Cole started a throwing program in August 2025, making 20 flat throws.
When will Gerrit Cole be back?
The 14-month schedule will mean that Cole's recovery process has been completed in May 2026.
With that in mind, Cole’s journey back to the Yankee is more complex than an overview of the schedule. Although it is impossible to fully predict, Cole’s return to New York’s courts may include minors’ rehabilitation tasks and measurement improvement processes.
The Yankees may provide a more obvious timeline for Cole to return as he leads the 2026 season.
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Yankee 2025 tilt rotation
In Cole's absence, the Yankees' starter's spin rate was the title of another recent free agent acquisition by Max Fried.
Here is their rotation prospect:
pitcher2025 recordsThe 2025 era1maxFried19-52.862CarlosRodón18-93.093CamSchlittler4-32.964luis Gil4-13.32