The New York Yankees announced Tuesday that ace pitcher Gerrit Cole has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a right forearm strain. An MRI revealed no structural damage but the team is exercising caution.
Cole had been dominant through his first three starts, posting a 1.89 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 19 innings. His absence creates a significant hole in the Yankees' rotation during a critical early stretch.
Manager Aaron Boone said the team expects Cole to return after the minimum 15-day stint and will use a combination of bullpen games and a spot starter to fill the gap.