Gerrit Cole Shines in Dominant Return from Tommy John Surgery

Gerrit Cole made a triumphant return to the Yankees' rotation Friday, tossing six scoreless innings against the Rays in his first start since the 2024 World Series. Returning from Tommy John surgery, Cole allowed just two hits and three walks with two strikeouts, reaching 99 mph on 72 pitches. Though he did not factor into the decision in the 4-2 loss, his performance was a major milestone. Manager Aaron Boone praised the ace, who arrived at the clubhouse locked in and ready to dominate.