Gerrit Cole’s return to the mound hasn’t matched his 2023 Cy Young performance. In his fourth start post-injury, he struggled against the Red Sox, allowing four runs on seven hits in a 14-4 Yankees win. He couldn’t finish the fifth inning, as Rafael Devers once again proved a tough opponent, hitting a key home run.
The intense heat and difficulty gripping the ball contributed to Cole’s challenges. Despite reaching 90 pitches, his effectiveness waned after a strong start that included eight strikeouts. Devers’ stats against Cole are impressive, with a .333 average and twice as many home runs as any other MLB player against him.
Aaron Boone replaced Cole with Tim Hill after 4 ¹/₃ innings. Boone acknowledged the toll the conditions took on Cole, noting his high pitch count and the Red Sox’s persistent at-bats. Cole’s ERA now stands at 6.75 over 17 ¹/₃ innings since returning from the IL.
