The New York Yankees didn't have their star pitcher to begin the season. Ahead of Thursday's 5-4 win over the Houston Astros, Gerrit Cole was recently placed on a 60-day IL due to inflammation in his right elbow. Regardless, a specific return date might already be planned. Cole spoke to reporters just before the team's season opener, stating that he was “feeling good” and that he hopes to be back around June 1, the speculated target date for his return. (per New York Post's John Heyman)
In the absence of Cole, Nestor Cortes took over the starting reigns on opening day — and the Yankees made sure they'd take home the victory in front of a tightly-packed Minute Maid Park.
Houston went on a 4-0 start, much to the delight of their home crowd. The Astros managed three runs alone in the first inning. They would follow that up with a Jake Meyers homer in the second. However, a thrilling Yankees comeback ensued.
New York managed three runs at the top of the fifth and Oswaldo Cabrera batted a home run in the next inning to tie the game. A sacrifice fly by the debuting Alex Verdugo in the seventh resulted in a go-ahead score by Yankees star Aaron Judge.
To seal the deal, it was newcomer Juan Soto who showed out on his NY debut. The Astros were on the verge of a game-tying run at the bottom of the ninth when Kyle Tucker hit a single to the right. Soto then made a game-saving throw to catcher Jose Trevino, who tagged out Astros' Mauricio Dubon at home plate.
The Astros challenged the play, but upon review, the call was withheld, giving Juan Soto a first game to remember.
“That was a Yankees classic right there,” Judge said, in reference to Soto's debut. (per ClutchPoints' Peter Sampson)
Gerrit Cole's return will strengthen an already formidable Yankees team
As good as the Yankees looked, one would wonder how strong the team would be with the reigning CY Young Awardee back in action. During Thursday's game, Cortes shook off a shaky start to retire 12 of the final 13 batters he faced. Relievers Jonathan Loaisiga, Ian Hamilton and Clay Holmes also contributed to the win. Nevertheless, Cole's eventual return will further boost the Yankees to another level defensively.
Last season, Cole pitched in 209 innings, tallying a 2.63 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and a 15-4 win-loss record (.789) in 33 games started. He garnered his sixth All-Star appearance and his third All-MLB First Team selection.
While he may be watching from the dugout in the next two months, Cole still finds ways to help the team's other pitchers.
“Gerrit’s always looking to contribute in whatever way he can, whether it’s on the field or in the throwing programs with the guys,” Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake said, per New York Post's Greg Joyce. “But in particular right now, while he can’t be on the field, I think it’ll be the voice of reason for a lot of these guys — how we’re looking at the other team, what they’re doing with their stuff. So I think it’ll probably elevate a little bit while he’s around and looking for things to do.”
Whether injured or healthy, Gerrit Cole's actions show that he's itching for a return. And once he's finally striking out batters again, the Yankees will be one step closer to playoff contention.
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