Yankees' Gerrit Cole Nears Return After Positive Rehab Session

The ace pitcher threw 20 pitches in live batting practice, showing promising signs of recovery from his elbow injury.

Cole's fastball reached 96 mph during the session, prompting pitching coach Matt Blake to ask him to ease off.
Manager Aaron Boone and Cole remain cautiously optimistic about a potential June return.
The Yankees have excelled without Cole, leading the AL East with a 33-16 record.
Cole needs one or two more live BP sessions before starting a minor league rehab assignment.
The Yankees' rotation has been a standout, with several pitchers stepping up in Cole's absence.