One subplot around the Yankees is when Gerrit Cole returns this season.
There is a delicate balance of wanting him back as soon as possible while wanting him for as long as possible — ideally for the franchise and player, that would be to the end of October. But, of course, the arm does not come with a gas tank reader that would suggest just how quickly and far the Yankees can count on their long-time ace.
Enmeshed in all of that is a motivated, pitching-loving patient. Yet the Yankees have found Cole a cohort in plotting his usage this season. Could he be ready in late April? Probably. But the big picture screams for more slow and steady to finish off this process, though he has received one encouraging report after another since surgery last March 11. Aaron Boone, at the opening of camp, verified that by mentioning that Cole already had been off the mound several times and could even pitch in Grapefruit League games before camp breaks.
Cole had an internal brace inserted into his right elbow during the procedure, which tends to hasten recovery. Still, Cole is 35 with well over 2,000 career innings between the regular season and playoffs. And his overall importance to a team with championship aims has not dimmed.
