Gerrit Cole, the powerhouse of the New York Yankees pitching staff, delivered his career-best season last year. While the rest of the squad broke down under the pressure of failures, Cole stood like a rock and availed his team of 33 chances of solid wins in his starts.
By the end of the year, Gerrit Cole walked off with his maiden CY Young award in the American League. Notably, the pitcher was elected unanimously for his brilliance on the mound. Having said that, ahead of the 2024 season, Cole stepped up for a start for the first time in spring. But left mid-way mysteriously, which sent waves of concern amongst Yankee loyalists.
Gerrit Cole Leaves Mound After Average Spring Outing Vs. Blue Jays
In a pivotal spring training game against Toronto Blue Jays, the New York Yankees fielded a full-strength squad consisting of almost all core players. Reigning AL CY Young pitcher, Gerrit Cole was slated to make his first start of the year. The stage was set, and the fans gathered up to witness the new-look Yankee roster in action. However, the pre-game hype and anticipation were doused quickly as Cole looked out of touch. He made two quick outs. But shortly after, gave up a triple and a home run to Daniel Vogelbach. Interestingly, the ace left the mound after the first inning, wherein he pitched a mere 22 pitches. His abrupt exit left the fans stunned in Tampa.
However, in a moment of relief, Gerrit Cole returned to the mound for second innings. For the unversed, in spring, starters can come and go as they please, unlike the regular season. Thus, the relaxation of the rules allowed Cole to return back to the mound to complete his start. But the ace still struggled before calling it quits for the good. That being said, Cole’s unusual behavior caught the fans’ attention as they suspected injury concern. Many took to social media websites to express significant doubt over the pitcher’s health status ahead of a crucial season. Cole has been the cornerstone of the Yankees’ pitching rotation. He is the leader, the anchor, and the club’s man of crisis. Thus, his absence would be a major blow for the Bronx Bombers, who are desperate to make a comeback after an 82-80 record season.
Yankees Ace Relishes Watching Juan Soto Live!
While Gerrit Cole had an ordinary outing on his spring debut, his teammate Juan Soto extended his sublime form. After a three-run bomb on debut, Soto slammed yet another home run against the Blue Jays on Friday. He smoked a long hit over center field to add to the Yankees lead. While the fans adored Soto’s magic, his teammate Cole was equally impressed.
While speaking to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, Gerrit Cole reckoned he loved watching Juan Soto bat. “I knew I would enjoy watching him,” added Cole. Indeed, the whole Yankees nation is excited to see Soto explode during the regular season. The New York Yankees will compete with the Houston Astros on the 2024 season opening day scheduled for March 29.
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