Cole's strikeout rate has declined for three straight seasons, dropping from 33.5% in 2021 to 25.4% in 2024, the lowest since his 2017 season with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His fastball velocity has also dipped, falling from an average of 97.1 mph in 2021 to 94.8 mph in 2024, with the most significant drop—1.4 mph—occurring between 2023 and 2024.

Cole showed off his health and his newest weapon in 3 ¹/₃ innings of a 6-3 win over the Blue Jays at Steinbrenner Field in which he allowed a run and three hits, hit one batter and struck out five. The righty was sharp, returned for a batter in the fourth inning because he was so efficient and finished with 46 pitches (including 33 strikes).

The New York Yankees have started their spring training campaign with a 1-3 record in the Grapefruit League. That seems bad, but no one will celebrate boasting the best record in spring training. It’s all about getting ready for the games that count,