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4w ago

Gerrit Cole Returns With Six Scoreless Innings in Yankees’ 4-2 Loss

Cole’s six shutout innings and near pre‑surgery velocity signal a lift for New York’s rotation, highlighting the team’s ongoing need for more reliable relief plus improved run production.

May 22, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) pitches against the Tampa Bay Rays during the first inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
‘Like I Never Left’: Yankees Ace Gerrit Cole Delivers 6 Shutout Innings In Return From Tommy John
May 22, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Houston Astros catcher Christian Vazquez (2) hits an RBI-single against the Chicago Cubs during the fourth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
May 22, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Kevin Gausman (34) pitches to the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Gerrit Cole made his first big‑league start since Game 5 of the 2024 World Series on Friday, pitching six scoreless innings in his return from Tommy John surgery.
  • Cole threw 72 pitches, struck out two, walked three and averaged a 96.1 mph four‑seam fastball with a 98.6 mph top speed, after six minor‑league rehab outings across High‑A, Double‑A and Triple‑A.
  • A defensive error by José Caballero opened the eighth inning and reliever Tim Hill failed to record an out while surrendering the runs that turned Cole’s quality start into a 4‑2 defeat.
  • The loss left New York well behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East, extending the Yankees’ struggles with late relief and inconsistent run production that Cole’s return alone cannot fix.
  • Yankees manager Aaron Boone and Cole emphasized cautious workload management, Cole is scheduled to start again next week, and the team will need bullpen improvement and more offense for real standing gains.