Player Performance and Team Context
Gerrit Cole, the cornerstone of the Yankees pitching staff, was sidelined for the first 75 games of the season due to elbow inflammation. However, his much-anticipated return finally happened on Wednesday night against the Baltimore Orioles.
Shaky Start and Quick Recovery
Taking the mound with eagerness and determination, Cole showed signs of rustiness in his first inning back, allowing a pair of hard-hit doubles and a run. Nevertheless, he quickly found his rhythm and settled in, delivering a performance that was both strong and encouraging. Cole's fastball reached a top speed of 97.5 mph, with his 28 fastballs averaging 95.1 mph. Given that he is still getting fully stretched out, this is not alarming.
Pitching Repertoire
Cole's reliance on his knuckle-curve and cutter was evident, but he also integrated his slider and changeup into his pitch mix. Facing 16 batters over four innings, Cole earned six whiffs and 13 called strikes. Manager Aaron Boone allowed Cole to come out for the fifth inning, but after permitting a lead-off single to Cedric Mullins, Cole was lifted with the score tied at 1-1.
Relief Struggles and Team Context
Unfortunately, the bullpen couldn't maintain the stalemate. Reliever Ron Marinaccio took over and struggled, allowing a two-run homer to Ramón Urías and giving up another run before escaping the fifth inning. Despite these struggles, it's worth noting that Yankees starters have thrived in Cole's absence this season. Yankees starters lead all of baseball with a rotation ERA of 2.86. Only the Phillies and Padres rotations have more strikeouts.
One standout in the Yankees rotation is Luis Gil, who boasts an AL-leading ERA of 2.03. Cole's return unquestionably strengthens an already formidable rotation.
Looking Ahead
Cole's season debut suggests he will soon deliver Cy Young-caliber performances. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday against the Mets, and both Cole and the Yankees will look to build on his strong return.
Quotes
"Encouraging for Cole and the Yankees is that his fastball topped out at 97.5 mph."
"Cole's debut suggests he will soon deliver Cy Young-caliber results again."
"Manager Aaron Boone allowed Cole to come out for the fifth inning."