MLB2 hours ago2 minute read

Gerrit Cole Struggles as Yankees Fall to Mets

Gerrit Cole struggled on Saturday, giving up five runs in a 12-2 loss to the Mets, leaving the Yankees pitcher searching for answers.

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Cole Struggles Against the Mets

Gerrit Cole had a rough afternoon on Saturday. The New York Yankees right hander lasted just 4 1/3 innings in a 12-2 loss to the New York Mets. He allowed five runs on nine hits, including three home runs, before leaving the mound to boos from the home crowd.

Francisco Lindor hit a leadoff home run, Luis Torrens added a two run shot in the second, and Carson Benge hit a solo home run in the third. Benge later chased Cole with an RBI single in the fifth. It was Cole's shortest start since early June, when he returned from Tommy John surgery.

The 36 year old pitcher now has a 7.28 ERA in 10 career starts against the Mets. That is his worst career ERA against any team. The Yankees missed a chance to clinch a postseason spot with the loss.

Searching for Adjustments

Cole has now given up seven home runs over his last two starts. That is the most he has ever allowed in a two start span. He said after the game that he needs to make changes.

"I think it's something that we got to figure out for sure," Cole said. "And it's just one of those times in the season, I think you got to start making adjustments."

Health is not the issue for Cole, who said he felt great. His fastball averaged 96.9 mph and topped out at 98.7 mph. However, Mets hitters only missed on three of their 40 swings against him. He did not get a single swing and miss on his fastball. His season whiff rate has dropped to 22.3 percent, down from 34.1 percent in 2022.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone remains confident in his ace. Boone said, "I expect him to be right next time." Cole has at most two starts left before the playoffs to get back on track.

What it means for the next game

New York Mets at New York Yankees (MLB, Sun, 13 Sep): New York Yankees win 63%, New York Mets win 37%; projected score New York Yankees 5, New York Mets 3. Our safest pick: Yankees to win.

New York Yankees at Minnesota Twins (MLB, Mon, 14 Sep): Minnesota Twins win 39%, New York Yankees win 61%; projected score Minnesota Twins 4, New York Yankees 5. Our safest pick: Yankees +1.5.