Breaking Report: Devastating News Coming for Yankees on Gerrit Cole

In what could be a devastating blow to the New York Yankees' season, ace Gerrit Cole experienced discomfort following a Grapefruit League start on Thursday, and has had a first round of diagnostic imaging.

The news does not sound good. In fact, the situation "is bad."

Speaking with a contact who's been around Yankees camp - the Gerrit Cole situation is bad. Scans indicate surgery (followed by a lengthy rehab) is required, but they're consulting another specialist to see if this can be avoided. It's unlikely. Expect months on the IL, not weeks.
— Dan Clark (@DanClarkSports) March 8, 2025

According to Dan Clark, the scans indicate that surgery will be needed, which would be followed by a lengthy rehab, all of which would keep Cole out of the Yankees rotation for "months."

Clark adds that they're going to consult another specialist to get a second opinion.

Last season, the former Cy Young Award winner was able to avoid surgery on his injured elbow after a visit to noted Tommy John surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache. Rehab was the solution then. Cole made 17 regular-season starts and went 8-5 with a 3.41 ERA last year, then made five starts in the postseason.

With Rookie of the Year Luis Gil also out for several months with a lat strain, and slugger Giancarlo Stanton once again on the shelf for a significant period, it's not a good time to be a Yankees fan.

The Yankees could potentially be without two of their BIGGEST CONTRIBUTORS for the ENTIRETY of the 2025 season🥺

With both Giancarlo Stanton and Gerrit Cole statuses completely up in the air, it is a very scary time to be a Yankee fan😬

PRAYING FOR THE BEST🙏#Yankees pic.twitter.com/wmswASEERR
— Fireside Yankees (@FiresideYankees) March 8, 2025

The rotation in the Bronx, without Cole and Gil, would be down to Max Fried (where would they be without that free agent signing?), Carlos Rodón, Marcus Stroman and Clarke Schmidt. Will Warren is expected to be the next man up. He has a 1.13 ERA in eight innings thus far in spring training play.

Non-roster invitee Carlos Carrasco could also get a shot.