The 2026 MLB season is beginning to take shape in the Bronx, and there is news that excites the fans, as Gerrit Cole returned to throw a live bullpen session after missing last year due to Tommy John surgery. But what really set social media ablaze was the reaction of New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge.
“It looked like the old 45 I’ve seen for years,” Judge said after watching the ace’s work. A brief but powerful phrase.
Gerrit Cole returns with signs of regaining elite level
After a full season out for rehab, Gerrit Cole‘s return was one of the most anticipated moments of spring training. And according to reports, his first session against hitters made it clear that he is further along than expected.
Consistent velocity, solid command and confidence in his pitches were some of the highlights. For a pitcher who has already won the Cy Young Award and signed a $324 million contract, the expectation is always high. The goal is clear: to return the Yankees to their 28th championship.
Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole, the heart of the Bronx
When both are in their prime, Judge and Cole represent one of the most dominant duos in modern baseball. Judge is coming off back-to-back American League MVP seasons and has worn the captain’s armband since 2022 with undisputed leadership.
Cole, for his part, won the Cy Young Award after a brilliant 2023 campaign and was instrumental in the team’s recent return to the World Series. However, they are still missing the ring together. In New York, it’s not enough to compete, the demand is to win
The good news is that the return of Cole changes the competitive landscape in the American League. A dominant starter takes pressure off the bullpen and evens out any postseason series.
The road to the World Series is long, but in the Bronx they know it all starts with a strong arm and a powerful bat. If Cole maintains that form and Judge continues to produce like an MVP, New York will be in the conversation for title No. 28.
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