Yankees’ Cole could pitch in spring games, but return timeline remains unchanged

TAMPA, Fla. -- New York Yankees right-hander Gerrit Cole on Friday confirmed he may pitch in Grapefruit League games before the end of spring training, which would represent a significant milestone in his recovery from Tommy John surgery, but he remains on his expected timetable for return of 14 to 18 months after undergoing the procedure last March. That timeline puts Cole’s return anywhere between June and October. Yankees officials have reiterated they believe Cole will return in June. “The target has always been between 14 to 18 months,”...