In a significant development for the New York Yankees, pitcher Gerrit Cole will be undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, effectively sidelining him for the entirety of the 2024 MLB season. The decision was confirmed by the team after Cole experienced discomfort following his second spring training appearance on February 28.

Details of the Surgery

The Yankees announced that Cole, aged 34, will have the surgery performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, a prominent surgeon operating at the Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles. Dr. ElAttrache is well-known for his work with professional athletes, serving as the head physician for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Cole commented on the situation, stating, “This isn’t the news any athlete wants to hear, but it’s the necessary next step for my career. I have a lot left to give, and I’m fully committed to the work ahead. I’ll attack my rehab every day and support the 2025 Yankees each step of the way. … I can’t wait to be back on the mound — stronger than ever.”

Cole’s Performance Background

Since joining the Yankees in 2020 on a nine-year, $324 million deal, Cole has established himself as an integral part of the team’s pitching rotation. He was awarded the 2023 AL Cy Young Award after achieving an impressive 8-5 record with a 3.41 ERA across 17 starts. However, a challenging 2023 season saw him begin the year on the disabled list due to nerve irritation and edema in his elbow, eventually finishing strong in the postseason.

Team Outlook Moving Forward

With the loss of their ace, Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed confidence in the team’s adaptability. He remarked on the situation, saying, “You’ve got to be able to handle it and deal with it and maneuver. It’s not a death sentence for us by any means, so it’s an opportunity for someone else. … The reality is Gerrit still has a lot of pitching in front of him in his career and pitching with the Yankees, and we want that to be as successful as it’s been already.”

Implications for the Yankees’ Rotation

In light of Cole’s surgery, the Yankees will need to rethink their pitching strategy. Current options to fill the rotation gaps include Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Clarke Schmidt, and Marcus Stroman. The organization is also evaluating Will Warren and Carlos Carrasco as potential fifth starters.

Other Injury Concerns

In addition to Cole’s absence, the Yankees face multiple injury challenges. AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil is expected to be out for at least three months due to a strained lat muscle, while Giancarlo Stanton is currently sidelined indefinitely due to tendon pain in both elbows. Furthermore, infielder DJ LeMahieu is recovering from a calf strain.