The camaraderie of baseball extends beyond the thrill of the game itself. It’s in those quiet moments of connection—a shared love of literature, a thoughtful analysis, or a heartfelt wish for a teammate’s well-being—that bonds are solidified. Such is the case of New York Yankees pitchers Marcus Stroman and Gerrit Cole, whose relationship transcends the mound. But this bond has been tested in recent days, with a surprising injury casting a shadow of uncertainty.
In a touching display of support, Marcus Stroman has taken to social media today to express concern for his teammate. Calling the news of Cole’s injury “brutal,” Stroman wishes him a swift return to the rotation while simultaneously reaffirming his belief in the ace.
“Brutal news today on Cole. Praying it’s nothing serious and he’s back in the rotation soon. Blessed to be around a legend who’s constantly elevating his game and trying to help everyone around him. Very thankful for his presence, insight and knowledge. Manifesting a speedy recovery for the best pitcher in baseball!!!”
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Here's EVERYTHING we know about Gerrit Cole's injury so far #Yankees
🔷Cole had an MRI on his throwing elbow this morning
🔷Has an issue recovering in-between starts, likened the pain to a regular season, 100-pitch outing
🔷Prognosis of the MRI will likely be revealed tomorrow… pic.twitter.com/I5ELFiYxVe— Fireside Yankees (@FiresideYankees) March 11, 2024
The bond between Marcus Stroman and Gerrit Cole took an unexpected turn recently when Stroman, a published children’s book author, revealed Cole’s genuine interest in his works, “The Grip” and “The Spin.” After joining the Bombers, Cole took the initiative to read Stroman’s books and even provided a detailed analysis.
“Gerrit’s cool, man,” Stroman told Newsday reporters. “He sent me like a synopsis of one of my books. You know what I mean? Just like he sends a synopsis, breaking you down [as a pitcher], he sent me a breakdown of my children’s book.”
Read More: Inside the MRI Ordeal Giving Yankees Fans Nightmares Over Gerrit Cole’s Health
This interaction further demonstrates Gerrit Cole’s commitment to connecting with teammates and his unwavering pursuit of knowledge—traits highly admired by Stroman. But what exactly has happened to his beloved Yankees’ ace, and what lies ahead for him?
Gerrit Cole’s Injury: A Worrisome Development
Concern over the severity of the ace’s injury is mounting as Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed an MRI on Cole’s right elbow. According to Boone, Cole’s unusually slow recovery between Spring Training outings prompted the need for further examination. “He described it as his recovery, leading into his next start, has been more akin to what he feels in the season when he’s making 100 pitches,” Boone said.
Gerrit Cole is having an MRI of his right elbow today. Was not recovering as well this spring so checking him out. #Yankees
— David Lennon (@DPLennon) March 11, 2024
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While initial strength tests on the ace pitcher’s arm offered some optimism, Boone remains cautious. “We want to get this checked out,” the skipper emphasized, highlighting the need for expert medical opinion before determining the extent of the injury and potential treatment plans.
The potential impact of Gerrit Cole’s injury casts a long shadow over the Yankees’ upcoming season. This news compounds existing concerns surrounding captain Aaron Judge’s recent general soreness, as announced in a North Jersey report. With Judge also sidelined, the team faces the possibility of starting the season without two of its cornerstone players.
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Cole’s MRI results are due Tuesday, and the baseball community anxiously awaits answers. Having faith in Boone’s emphasis—“hopefully it’s not something significant”—Yankees fans and baseball enthusiasts across the country are hoping for the swift and full recovery of a pitcher who is widely considered among the sport’s elite.