Yankees' Gerrit Cole Avoids Surgery, Out 1-2 Months; Cortes Named Opening Day Starter

Cole's absence tests Yankees' rotation depth as they prepare for the season without their ace.

Gerrit Cole, the Yankees' ace pitcher and reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, will not need surgery for his elbow injury but is expected to miss one to two months of the season.
Nestor Cortes has been named the Yankees' Opening Day starter, filling in for the injured Cole.
Despite the setback, Cole's teammates express optimism about his recovery and the team's ability to perform in his absence.
The Yankees' pitching rotation faces challenges with Cole's absence, but alternatives and adjustments are being made to ensure readiness for the season.
The team and fans receive a mix of good and concerning news, with Cole avoiding surgery but the rotation being tested early in the season.