Yankees ace Gerrit Cole progresses in bullpen session

In St. Petersburg, Florida, Gerrit Cole is slowly getting back into pitching. He threw 15 fastballs in his first bullpen session, then 20 more mostly fastballs on Tuesday. Cole is working towards returning to play around the start of July. He says they are making good progress. The Yankees and Cole are not giving a specific date for his return, taking it step by step. Cole mentioned he needs a couple more bullpen sessions before facing live hitters. The Yankees are being cautious with Cole's recovery. He had an elbow issue after one Grapefruit League start. The team plans to give him a full six-week spring training equivalent to build up his strength. Cole is focusing on the precision of his pitches and hand movements during his delivery. Despite Cole and DJ LeMahieu being out, the Yankees are doing well in the AL East. Cole had a successful bullpen session before a game against Houston. He is expected to travel with the team to Tampa Bay for more training. LeMahieu's rehab assignment was cut short, but other players like Oswald Peraza and Jasson Dominguez are making progress in their recoveries. Jasson Dominguez, who had a strong start in his major league career before an injury, is close to returning. Giancarlo Stanton hit the hardest home run of the season. The Yankees made some roster moves to adjust to the upcoming games. Jon Berti and Jose Trevino started in the game against Houston due to their success against right-handed pitchers.