Yankees Deliver Key Updates on Gerrit Cole and Rotation Plans After Win Over Tigers
Following the Yankees’ 8-6 victory over the Tigers at Joker Marchant Stadium, manager Aaron Boone made a brief but significant stop before heading into the visiting clubhouse. As he walked from the third-base dugout to right field, Boone was momentarily pulled aside by Yankees media relations official Kaitlyn Brennan, who quietly shared an important update.
Boone then revealed the latest on Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, who underwent season-ending Tommy John surgery on Tuesday in Los Angeles. The procedure included a UCL repair with an internal brace—a modern variation of the traditional surgery. However, Boone clarified that despite this updated technique, Cole’s recovery timeline remains unchanged at 12 to 18 months due to the full reconstruction.
Max Fried Shines, But Won’t Be Opening Day Starter
During his brief post-game remarks, Boone also praised Max Fried, who delivered an impressive four-inning performance, allowing just one run—a 405-foot homer by former Yankee Gleyber Torres. Other than that, Fried was dominant, retiring 12 batters with a mix of strikeouts and weak contact.
Despite his strong outing, Boone confirmed that Fried will not be the Yankees’ Opening Day starter on March 27. Instead, the official announcement will come Friday, with lefty Carlos Rodón expected to get the nod.
Fried, who threw 57 pitches in the game and added a few more in the bullpen, said he felt good about his performance. He was also pleased to have finally worked with Yankees starting catcher Austin Wells in a game setting.
“He’s extremely talented and very smart,” Fried said. “I love having conversations with my catcher to understand what they’re seeing. We’re getting familiar with each other—it’s a learning process.”
Game Highlights and Notable Performances
- Jasson Domínguez went 1-for-3 with a home run and a walk but had a tough defensive moment when a fifth-inning liner deflected off his glove.
- Paul Goldschmidt had a big night, going 2-for-4 with a homer and a double, boosting his average to .300.
- Anthony Volpe struggled at the plate, going 0-for-2 with a walk, dropping his average to .167.
- The Tigers pushed across two late runs in the ninth after Yankees minor leaguer Hayden Merda issued three consecutive bases-loaded walks before finally recording the final out.
What’s Next?
The Yankees return to action Friday night at home against the Phillies. Right-hander Allan Winans will take the mound against Philadelphia’s Taijuan Walker, with first pitch set for 6:36 p.m. on YES.
