Yankees' Gerrit Cole throws six scoreless innings, hits 98.6 mph in first start after Tommy John surgery

New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole made his first MLB start in 569 days on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays, following Tommy John surgery. He threw six scoreless innings and reached a fastball velocity of 98.6 mph, demonstrating a strong return to form. The lengthy absence marked over a year and a half away from competitive pitching.