The New York Yankees and their fans woke up hoping for good news on Gerrit Cole’s elbow injury. Instead, the situation just got more ominous. What started as a 10-12 week absence with no need for surgery has now escalated, with the Yankees seeking a second opinion—a phrase that no team ever wants to hear when it comes to their ace pitcher.

This changes everything. A fully healthy Cole would have set the tone for the Yankees’ rotation, stabilizing a group filled with injury risks and inconsistency. But with Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes, and Clarke Schmidt now forced into bigger roles, the Yankees suddenly look vulnerable.

Former MLB pitcher and analyst Jensen Lewis didn’t mince words when discussing the situation, saying, “Sounds like the worst could be coming true again.” “Now you’re in massive pivot mode because I guarantee you Brian Cashman and Hal Steinbrenner are already discussing contingency plans”, signaling that the team isn’t convinced Cole will be back anytime soon.

Let’s be real—teams don’t rush their $324 million ace to a second doctor unless something is troubling in the initial diagnosis. Cole’s first evaluation suggested rest and rehab instead of Tommy John surgery, but a follow-up appointment could mean one of two things: the first doctor wasn’t 100% confident in the original plan. Or Cole’s symptoms worsened, prompting the team to dig deeper. Neither scenario is reassuring. If surgery becomes necessary, the Yankees will be without their Cy Young winner for the entire season—and possibly a chunk of 2026.

And without Cole, the Yankees’ starting rotation is off kilt. Carlos Rodón, Nestor Cortes, Marcus Stroman, Clarke Schmidt, and Luis Gil now shoulder the burden. That’s a mix of talent and question marks—Rodón struggled with injuries last year, Cortes is coming off a lost season, and Stroman thrives as a mid-rotation arm, not an ace.

The Yankees could wait and hope Cole’s rehab works, but if the second opinion confirms a longer absence, expect aggressive moves. Lewis floated Sandy Alcantara as a potential trade target, though he’s still recovering from his own Tommy John surgery. Other names to watch? Shane Bieber, Dylan Cease, and Corbin Burnes if they become available. And if the Yankees were planning for October, they might need a new plan altogether.

How does Cole’s worsening injury shift the AL East race for the New York Yankees?

Gerrit Cole’s uncertain status throws the AL East wide open. The Yankees rely heavily on their pitching depth and the dynamic duo of Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton. However, they are currently dealing with a significant challenge in their rotation strategy due to uncertainties surrounding Carlos Rodóns, Nestor Cortes, and Marcus Stroman leading the charge. They now count on Rodón to get back to his ace-level form and Cortes to stay healthy. Without Cole leading the team pitching staff might face difficulties, against AL East opponents – which means increased pressure on Anthony Volpe, Gleyber Torres, and recently added Alex Verdugo.

This injury also gave a boost to other divisional rivals. The Baltimore Orioles are already on the rise after winning multiple division games in 2024. Now seem poised for a repeat with an upgraded rotation that includes Kyle Bradish and Grayson Rodriguez. On the other hand, the Toronto Blue Jays haven’t made major moves in the offseason but still feature Kevin Gausman, José Berríos and a strong lineup led by Vladimir Guerrero Jr and Bo Bichette. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays continue to pose a threat with their pitching staff and ability to exceed expectations.

In essence, if Cole misses extended time or worst case, undergoes surgery, the Yankees may be forced to explore the trade market early in the season, or risk falling behind in one of baseball’s most competitive divisions. How do you think the New York Yankees can adjust to stay competitive in a division stacked tall with contenders? Let us know below!