Gerrit Cole, the 2023 American League Cy Young Award winner, made a promising return to the mound during his first rehab start with Double-A Somerset after Tommy John surgery. Pitching 4.1 innings, Cole allowed three runs on three hits, while demonstrating solid control by throwing 36 of 44 pitches for strikes. Despite the success, Yankees manager Aaron Boone emphasized that Cole will need 'several more' outings before he can rejoin the Yankees' rotation, with a target return potentially in early June. Cole's performance included an RBI double and a two-run home run in the second inning, along with one walk and three strikeouts. He faced a challenging left-handed lineup, which allowed him to work on his changeup. Meanwhile, fellow pitcher Carlos Rodón is also progressing in his recovery and may start his rehab assignment next week, potentially returning to the Yankees before Cole. The Yankees' rotation has been impressive in Cole's absence, holding a 3.21 ERA, ranking sixth in Major League Baseball as they prepare for the return of their star pitchers.