It seems like eons ago that the New York Yankees signed former Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole to head a strong rotation. The hope for New York is that Cole will be able to lead the Evil Empire to its first World Series title since all the way back in 2009.
Now, with the shortened regular season slated to start next month, we have a few more details available for the masses.
MLB season to open with nationally televised doubleheader on July 23
As noted, the expectation is that Cole and his Yankees will be playing in one of those games. We would not be shocked if it came against the Boston Red Sox. The 60-game schedule is expected to include a large amount of games against division opponents.
Gerrit Cole’s contract will lead to heightened expectations in the Bronx
The 29-year-old pitcher signed a ridiculous nine-year, $324 million deal back in December. He’s likely only going to get about 12 starts in before the playoffs begin. This makes every start much more important than a regular 162-game slate.
Gerrit Cole has dominating stats and should succeed in New York
Last season saw Cole pitch to a 20-5 record with a 2.50 ERA and 0.89 WHIP. The former Houston Astros star also struck out 326 batters in 212.1 inning, finishing second to then-teammate Justin Verlander in AL Cy Young voting.
It stands to reason that this success will translate to New York City. We should see first hand on national television in less than a month.