Full Breakdown
Yankees' Injury Updates: Cole, Rodón, and Volpe Nearing Returns
4/14/2026, 6:45:14 AM
Key Injury Updates for Yankees Pitchers
Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón are progressing towards potential rehab assignments as they recover from significant injuries. Cole, who underwent Tommy John surgery in March 2025, recently threw 42 pitches over three innings during a simulated game in Hudson Valley. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that Cole is expected to pitch again in five days, although the specifics of his next steps remain undecided. Cole expressed confidence in his recovery, stating, “Stamina was good... everything’s good.”
Rodón, recovering from elbow surgery and a recent hamstring tightness, completed three innings and 50 pitches during a live batting practice session at Yankee Stadium. Boone noted that Rodón also looks promising, and his next outing will be determined soon. If both pitchers return in May or June, the Yankees will face decisions regarding their rotation, particularly with Luis Gil and Will Warren currently filling in.
Anthony Volpe's Rehab Assignment
Shortstop Anthony Volpe is set to begin his rehab assignment with the Somerset Patriots, the Yankees’ Double-A affiliate. Cleared by team physician Dr. Christopher Ahmad, Volpe will play a maximum of 20 days, starting with 3-5 innings in his initial games. Volpe underwent an arthroscopic labral procedure on his left shoulder in October 2025 after a challenging season where he played through a torn labrum. Boone remarked that Volpe is ahead of schedule, but emphasized the need for a careful approach to his rehabilitation.
Once activated, Volpe is expected to reclaim the starting shortstop position, which he has held since making the roster in 2023. However, José Caballero, who has been filling in, has struggled offensively, with a .146 batting average and shaky defense. The Yankees anticipate that Volpe will significantly improve their infield performance upon his return.
Recent Game Performance
The Yankees faced a setback in their recent game against the Tampa Bay Rays, losing 5-4. Drew Rasmussen, returning from a family emergency leave, dominated the Yankees for six innings, allowing only one hit. Despite a late-game rally, including a two-run homer from Aaron Judge, the Yankees could not secure a win, marking their fifth consecutive loss. The Yankees have struggled this season, with all seven of their losses coming by two runs or less.
What's Next for the Yankees?
As the Yankees navigate player injuries and performance issues, the upcoming decisions regarding Cole, Rodón, and Volpe will be crucial for their season trajectory. The team will continue to monitor the health of their key players while seeking to improve their standings in the competitive American League East.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s a little ahead of the game from when you would start spring training, probably,” — Aaron Boone, Yankees Manager
- “That’s always been the plan,” — Brian Cashman, Yankees General Manager
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no significant conflicting reports regarding the injuries and rehabilitation of Cole, Rodón, and Volpe. However, the Yankees' performance metrics and player statistics may vary across different analyses, reflecting the ongoing challenges the team faces this season.
