Gerrit Cole is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, as announced by the New York Yankees on Monday. The team’s star pitcher and 2023 AL Cy Young recipient will have the procedure on Tuesday, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache. Cole’s decision follows elbow discomfort experienced during a spring training session last Thursday, with an MRI on Friday confirming the necessity for surgery.

This development is a significant setback for both the Yankees and Cole, who is nearing his 13th MLB season at age 34. Typically, pitchers recovering from this surgery face an absence of 12 to 18 months, effectively ruling Cole out for the entire 2025 season and casting uncertainty over his future as a premier pitcher in the league.

Cole expressed his thoughts on Instagram, stating, “Ever since I aspired to wear the Yankees uniform, my aim has always been to help secure a World Series title for New York. That goal remains unchanged—I still hold belief in it and am more determined than ever to make it happen. Today, leading medical professionals advise that I undergo Tommy John surgery.

While it’s not what any athlete wants to hear, it’s a necessary step for my career. I have plenty left to offer, and I’m fully committed to my rehabilitation. I’ll face it head-on and support the 2025 Yankees throughout. I love this sport, I love the competition, and I eagerly await my return to the mound—stronger than before. See you soon.”

This development represents the second and most impactful hit to the Yankees’ rotation, which entered spring training with what seemed like a surplus of starting options. Just last week, the Yankees revealed that sophomore pitcher and reigning AL Rookie of the Year Luis Gil will be out for at least three months due to a severe lat strain.

With Cole now also unavailable, Marcus Stroman, who was on the verge of missing out on a spot in the five-man rotation, is likely to reclaim a starting role, while the Yankees continue their search for a fifth starter. Carlos Rodón, Max Fried, and Clarke Schmidt will complete the rotation.

The Yankees are also grappling with injuries within their lineup. Designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is dealing with tendinitis in both elbows and is abstaining from swinging during spring training. He received a second round of platelet-rich plasma treatments in both elbows last week and has no set timeline for his return.

Infielder DJ LeMahieu is sidelined with a left calf strain and has paused all baseball activities. On March 6, he mentioned it would be at least “a couple of weeks” before he resumes baseball activities. The Yankees are scheduled to begin their season at home on March 27 against the Milwaukee Brewers.