New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole made his first minor league rehab start, pitching 4.1 innings and recording three strikeouts.

Gerrit Cole completed his first minor league rehab start today for the Somerset Patriots (AA), pitching 4.1 innings.

Cole is recovering from Tommy John surgery performed in March 2025. Against the Philadelphia Phillies' AA affiliate Reading Fightin Phils, he recorded three strikeouts, one walk, allowed three hits and three runs, throwing 44 pitches (36 strikes).

"We'll take it step by step," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said before the game. "Even when he returns to our major league roster, we might still be cautious with him."

Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe also participated in that game. Boone stated that Volpe is expected to play for Somerset on Friday (1 hit in 3 at-bats), Saturday, and next Monday, then move to AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Cole had a side session at Yankee Stadium on Thursday, which went well, allowing him to begin his minor league rehab assignment. The Yankees expect the 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner to return to the starting rotation in late May or early June.

So far, Cole's recovery has progressed smoothly. He made two starts during spring training: one inning against the Red Sox on March 18, and 1.2 innings against the Cubs in Arizona on March 24.

"I have nothing to complain about," Cole said on Tuesday. "The stamina is good, the pitches are okay for now, everything is fine. I'm a bit picky, but all is good."

Carlos Rodón is also scheduled to go to AA Somerset on Sunday for a live batting practice session, which will be his final test before being cleared to begin his minor league rehab starts.

Rodón was previously expected to return to the rotation in late April or early May, but he briefly slowed his progress due to a right hamstring issue, which the Yankees have factored into his rehab plan. Boone said if Saturday's session goes well, Rodón might need three minor league starts. This allows him to get the necessary appearances and gives him more time, avoiding forcing him to run or perform game activities that could aggravate the hamstring injury.