UPDATE: Gerrit Cole underwent internal bracing during his recent successful Tommy John surgery, which could speed recovery time and set him up for a return to pitching in….

Gerrit Cole Undergoes Internal Bracing in Tommy John Surgery, Potentially Speeds Up Recovery

 

New York Yankees ace Gerrit Cole recently underwent Tommy John surgery, but with an innovative twist—his procedure included internal bracing, a technique that could accelerate his recovery. The surgery was deemed a success, and with this method, Cole may return to the mound in approximately 12 months, a quicker timeline compared to traditional Tommy John recoveries.

 

Tommy John surgery, named after the former MLB pitcher who first underwent the procedure in 1974, is a common operation for pitchers dealing with significant ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) damage in the elbow. Traditionally, this surgery involves grafting a tendon from another part of the body to reconstruct the damaged ligament. However, internal bracing is a relatively newer addition that has gained traction in recent years. It involves the use of a strong, synthetic tape-like material to reinforce the repaired ligament. This added support allows for greater stability and potentially shortens the rehab process.

 

For Cole and the Yankees, this development is significant. The typical recovery timeline for traditional Tommy John surgery is 12-18 months, with some pitchers needing closer to two years to regain their pre-surgery form. If Cole is able to return within a year, he could be available for the Yankees at some point during the 2025 season. This would be a major boost for New York, considering Cole is the reigning American League Cy Young winner and the anchor of their starting rotation.

 

The Yankees will still have to be cautious with Cole’s rehab. Despite the potential benefits of internal bracing, every pitcher’s recovery is different, and setbacks are always possible. The team will likely monitor his throwing program closely, ensuring he progresses at a pace that minimizes the risk of re-injury.

 

Cole’s surgery and expected recovery timeline will be closely watched across MLB. If he returns in top form within 12 months, it could further validate the internal bracing technique as a viable option for pitchers undergoing UCL repairs. As medical advancements continue to evolve in baseball, teams will be eager to see if this approach becomes a game-changer for future Tommy John cases.

 

For now, the Yankees will need to navigate the 2024 season without their ace. But if the internal bracing does indeed help him return sooner than expected, Cole’s comeback in 2025 could provide the Yankees with a major lift in their pursuit of a championship.