New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole reached 96.9 mph during his first live batting practice session against hitters on Friday in Tampa. The 35-year-old right-hander threw approximately 20 pitches, facing Aaron Judge, Jasson Domínguez, and Trent Grisham at the team's spring training complex.

This milestone comes 11 months after Cole underwent Tommy John elbow surgery in March 2025. His last competitive pitch was in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series. Cole has modified his delivery, now bringing his hands over his head instead of stopping at his chest, a mechanical tweak aimed at improving efficiency post-surgery.

Manager Aaron Boone described the session as "really good," confirming the planned progression. The Yankees' championship hopes for 2026 are intrinsically linked to the 2023 AL Cy Young Award winner's return. His targeted comeback window of May to September fits the standard 14-to-18-month recovery timeline he previously established.