Gerrit Cole Set to Make Yankees Return in 2026 Debut Against Rays

Gerrit Cole Returns for 2026 MLB Season Opener

After an extended recovery from Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2025 season, Gerrit Cole is ready to rejoin the New York Yankees. His much-anticipated return will take place on May 22, when he faces off against the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. The first pitch is scheduled for 7:05 p.m. ET, marking a significant event for the Yankees and their fans.

Cole’s Background and Prior Season Performance

Gerrit Cole, now 35, last took the mound for the Yankees during Game 5 of the 2024 World Series. Unfortunately, that game ended in heartbreak for New York as a series of defensive misplays led to an unexpected loss against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Following the World Series, Cole underwent Tommy John surgery in early 2025 after battling elbow discomfort in the previous season. Having missed nearly two full seasons, Cole is eager to prove his dominance once again on the mound.

Player Props for Cole’s Debut

As Cole prepares for his first game in nearly two years, various prop bets have been set. According to odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook, several intriguing player props have emerged:

• Over 4.5 strikeouts (-157)
• Under 16.5 total outs (+100)
• Over 1.5 earned runs allowed (-141)

Considering Cole’s solid performance in his rehab assignments, where he worked up to 86 pitches, it's expected he will be monitored closely during his return. Given the Rays’ strong performance this season, with a record of 33-15, assessing his pitch count suggests that he may not exceed 90 pitches to avoid overexertion.

Assessing Cole’s Season Odds

For the 2026 season, DraftKings has also released future betting props for Cole:

• Over 118.5 strikeouts (-115)
• Under 3.85 ERA (-125)

With the Yankees having a substantial number of games left after May 22, Cole could realistically start around 20 to 22 games this season. To hit the over on strikeouts, he would need to average about six strikeouts per game, a target that seems feasible considering his career strikeout rate and performance in rehabilitation games.

Implications of Cole’s Return

Cole rejoining the Yankees is particularly timely, as the pitching staff has shown strength, notably with young star Cam Schlittler leading the Cy Young discussions in the American League. With Max Fried currently on the injured list, Cole’s experience and skills become invaluable as the Yankees aim to close the gap in the AL East. Fans can expect an exciting matchup against the Rays as the Yankees prepare to strengthen their postseason aspirations.

In summary, as Gerrit Cole makes his comeback, the baseball betting community has their eyes on his performances. With important player props in play, his first start of the season could set the tone for the Yankees' ambitions moving forward.