Gerrit Cole looks like a Cy Young pitcher after bullpen session

Gerrit Cole completed a bullpen session at Steinbrenner Field about 11 months after Tommy John surgery, with his fastball registering 94–96 mph. The Yankees and Cole say the 14–18 month recovery timeline remains on track.

Gerrit Cole threw two simulated innings in a bullpen session at Steinbrenner Field, drawing attention from Yankees staff during spring camp activity. He is about 11 months removed from Tommy John surgery and is progressing through a step-by-step rehab plan. Club doctors and surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache have discussed a 14–18 month target window for a return. Both Cole and the Yankees emphasize a cautious, measured approach as he continues throwing. Key details: - Cole is 35 and underwent Tommy John surgery on March 11, which kept him out for the 2025 season. - In the February bullpen session his fastball reached about 94–96 mph. - Catcher Austin Wells said Cole "looked like a Cy Young pitcher," calling him smooth and confident. - Cole and the medical staff say the return target remains 14–18 months, which would put the earliest target around May 11. - Manager Aaron Boone stated the Yankees will not rush Cole and plan to build him up in a deliberate way. Summary: The bullpen outing offered a controlled step forward in Cole’s rehabilitation but does not mean he will immediately return to game action. The team plans additional throwing progressions, possible work against hitters and Grapefruit League appearances before any regular-season return, and the 14–18 month timeline remains the stated target.