What stood out from Yankees ace Gerrit Cole’s ‘encouraging’ first rehab start

Key Points:

• Gerrit Cole made his first rehab start since Tommy John surgery on Friday night, pitching 4 1/3 innings for Double-A Somerset, showcasing a fastball up to 97 mph and sharp breaking balls.
• Cole threw 44 pitches, allowing three earned runs on three hits, including a two-run homer, with three strikeouts and one walk, and is expected to make another rehab start in about five to six days.
• An opposing scout praised Cole's performance, noting his fastball velocity and promising curveball, while Cole himself expressed satisfaction with all his pitches, particularly his changeup and curveball.
• Despite some command issues early in the outing, Cole maintained a positive outlook on his progress and is focused on continuing his rehab, with no immediate return to the Yankees expected for a few more weeks.
• The Yankees are encouraged by Cole's recovery and performance, viewing his rehab start as a significant step toward his return to major league action.