Yankees Injury Update: Cole, Rodon, and Schlittler’s Status
The New York Yankees are navigating the challenges of injuries as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. Prominent updates focus on their key starting pitchers: Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodon, and Cam Schlittler.
Gerrit Cole’s Injury Update
Gerrit Cole, the Yankees’ ace, is recovering from Tommy John surgery. The 35-year-old underwent the procedure in March and missed the entire 2025 season. Manager Aaron Boone shared that Cole is set to face hitters soon, aiming for a return in Spring Training games.
Although Opening Day is not feasible, there is hope that Cole could rejoin the team within the first month of the season. The Yankees may avoid placing him on the 60-day injured list if he shows significant progress. After winning the AL Cy Young Award in 2023, Cole dealt with elbow inflammation in 2024, which led to his surgery. He has three seasons remaining on his lucrative nine-year, $324 million contract.
Carlos Rodon: Near Return
Carlos Rodon is also showing encouraging signs of recovery. He had surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow after the 2025 campaign. Reports indicate that Rodon is playing catch and is expected to return before the end of April. Boone noted that he is not far behind normal preparation for the season.
Rodon is coming off a season in which he made a career-high 33 starts and earned an All-Star selection. However, his postseason performance was disappointing, yielding nine earned runs across two playoff games.
Cam Schlittler’s Condition
In contrast, young right-hander Cam Schlittler is managing left lat issues rather than mid-back inflammation as initially reported. He took to social media to clarify his condition, emphasizing the importance of early management of the issue.
Schlittler impressed during his major league debut, achieving a sub-3.00 ERA across 14 starts. He notably excelled in the postseason, pitching eight scoreless innings against Boston in the ALDS, and provided a commendable performance against Toronto in the ALCS despite the team’s loss in that series.
Additional Player Updates
- Anthony Volpe: The shortstop is recovering from torn labrum surgery and is expected to start hitting before the end of February. Boone mentioned that his strength is returning, though Volpe will be placed on the injured list at the season’s start.
- Jose Caballero: The infielder is anticipated to take over shortstop duties until Volpe is ready to play.
The Yankees continue to monitor the progress of their injured players, hoping for a quick return to form as they gear up for the season ahead.
