New York Yankees are rolling at 25-11 and leading the AL East, but the biggest boost for the rest of May could come from the return of their two ace pitchers.

Carlos Rodón is closing in on his 2026 debut, while Gerrit Cole continues progressing through his rehab from Tommy John surgery.

Rodón Nearing Activation After Strong Triple-A Outing

On Tuesday, Rodón pitched 6.1 innings for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Although he allowed six runs, the left-hander threw 83 pitches and looked healthy. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that if Rodón comes out of his next start healthy, he could rejoin the Yankees as soon as Sunday, May 10 or Monday, May 11.

Cole Still a Few Weeks Away

Meanwhile, Gerrit Cole was transferred to High-A Hudson Valley for his latest rehab start. The reigning AL Cy Young winner tossed 4.1 innings and allowed five runs. Boone confirmed Cole is “still a little ways away,” with a realistic target of late May or early June.

Why This Matters for the Yankees

Even without their top two starters, the Yankees’ rotation has been one of the best in baseball. The return of Rodón (and eventually Cole) would give New York unmatched depth and firepower as they push for another deep postseason run.

The Bronx Bombers are in prime position — and the best may be yet to come in May.