Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Gerrit Cole is recovering from reconstructive elbow surgery (March 11, 2025) and is currently on a minor league rehabilitation assignment. Through his rehab starts, Cole has shown mixed results with command issues and elevated home run rates, though he has demonstrated the ability to handle a typical starter's workload. The Yankees are targeting a late May or early June return, with Cole needing at least a couple more minor league starts before activation. Cole struck out 8 over 5 innings in his 5th rehab start, showing improvement. He is expected to make his 2026 MLB debut in late May or early June.
Strengths
- + Able to handle typical starter's workload (69+ pitches)
- + Strong strikeout ability (14 strikeouts in 18.2 innings early in rehab, 8 strikeouts in 5 innings in latest start)
- + Good command with just 1 walk over 18.2 innings in early rehab
- + 2023 AL Cy Young winner with proven track record
- + No structural damage concerns
- + Showing improvement in latest rehab start
Weaknesses
- - Reconstructive elbow surgery (March 11, 2025)
- - Elevated home run rate during rehab (6 HRs in 18.2 innings early, 2 HRs in 4.1 innings in one start)
- - Velocity concerns - may need to pick up velocity before activation
- - Command inconsistency in early rehab starts
- - Extended recovery timeline - multiple rehab starts required
- - Hasn't pitched in MLB since Game 5 of 2024 World Series
Injury Status: IL-15
About
Cole Roederer is a center fielder for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
CF
Chicago Cubs