Despite modifications, Gerrit Cole is dealing with an elbow issue again

New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole is a year removed from missing over 70 games to the start of the 2024 season due to nerve irritation and edema in his elbow.  He returned in June last year, was healthy through the World Series, modified his throwing program over the off-season, but now has concerns over his elbow again after feeling some discomfort.

Gerrit Cole had imaging done on his elbow and is seeking multiple opinions 

Feb 16, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) throws a pitch during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images

After a spring training outing where Cole threw 54 pitches over 2.2 innings and surrendered six earned runs, he became concerned about elbow discomfort.  As a result he had imaging done and has distributed it to multiple doctors in which he will receive a few opinions on next steps.

Gerrit Cole said the imaging of his elbow has already been distributed and he is seeking second opinions. No travel booked at this time. “I’ve still got some hope. I’m just waiting for the experts to weigh in.”

— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) March 8, 2025

This off-season, modifications were made to his throwing program

Oct 30, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) walks off the field after being relieved during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game four of the 2024 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

According to ESPN, Cole reported to camp saying “I’m in a really good spot [compared] to years past and probably slightly ahead of where we were last year.”  Cole credited starting his throwing progression earlier than normal as the primary reason for this.  2024 was the first time Cole had endured an arm injury, and despite his best efforts it appears that the injury bug has followed him into the 2025 campaign.

The New York Yankees starting rotation is already dealing with injury

Oct 30, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) reacts during the sixth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game four of the 2024 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Prior to the Cole injury news surfacing, the Yankees announced that righty starter Luis Gil sustained a high-grade LAT strain and will be shut down from throwing for at least six weeks.  Barring any setbacks, Gil is expected to return mid-summer.  Cole’s injury extent is currently not fully known, but either way it’s a big blow for New York.

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