Gerrit Cole exits game with calf cramp in Texas seventh inning

During a game in Arlington, Texas, New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole exited the field due to a right calf cramp after completing his warmup pitches in the seventh inning. Prior to leaving, Cole attempted to stretch his right leg and signaled to the bench after experiencing discomfort. Manager Aaron Boone and the team's director of sports medicine, Michael Shuck, promptly attended to him on the mound. Cole's performance up to that point was strong, as he had struck out nine batters and allowed only one run over six innings, contributing to a 7-1 lead for the Yankees. This game marked Cole's first start of September, following a successful August where he recorded a 1.93 ERA and 31 strikeouts across five games. His season had begun on a challenging note, as he was placed on the 60-day injured list due to nerve irritation and edema in his throwing elbow during spring training, delaying his debut until June 19. The injury history adds a layer of concern regarding his current health status. With Cole's exit, Luke Weaver took over pitching duties but faced immediate challenges, allowing a single and a home run shortly after entering the game. This shift in the pitching lineup could impact the Yankees' performance as they aim to maintain their lead in the game. As the Yankees continue their season, the team will need to monitor Cole's condition closely, especially given his previous injury issues. His ability to recover quickly will be crucial for the Yankees' pitching rotation and their overall success in the upcoming games.