Giants’ Alex Cobb Progressing in Rehab, Targeting Pre-All-Star Break Return

San Francisco Giants Pitcher Alex Cobb Is Diligently Working Through His Rehabilitation From Offseason Hip Surgery, Aiming for an Early Return to the Mound in the 2024 MLB Season

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – San Francisco Giants pitcher Alex Cobb is diligently working through his rehabilitation from offseason hip surgery, aiming for an early return to the mound in the 2024 MLB season.

The 36-year-old right-hander underwent surgery on October 31st, 2023, to address labrum and impingement issues in his left hip, sidelining him for at least the first two months of the upcoming campaign.

In a recent interview with NBC Sports Bay Area at the Giants Fan Fest, Cobb provided an update on his rehab progress, expressing optimism about his recovery.

"It comes in phases, where you have to meet certain goals before moving on to the next phase," Cobb explained. "I feel like I’ve been able to get through each phase earlier than expected. I just started throwing on Thursday, and everything feels great."

Cobb emphasized the improvement in his leg strength, attributing it to effective navigation of the rehab program while maintaining his arm’s condition. He expressed hope for a potentially shorter build-up time, acknowledging the need for caution in the process.

Giants President of Baseball Operations Farhan Zaidi Addressed the Timeline for Cobb’s Return

Giants President of Baseball Operations Farhan Zaidi addressed the timeline for Cobb’s return during a press conference following the team’s trade for veteran left-handed pitcher Robbie Ray. Zaidi indicated that Ray, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is expected to return shortly after the MLB All-Star break. He also expressed encouragement in Cobb’s progress, suggesting a possible return sometime in the first half of the season.

Cobb, however, remains uncertain about the exact date of his return, as the Giants intentionally keep him in the dark to prevent him from rushing back.

"I don’t have a specific timeline, but I do expect to be back before the All-Star break," Cobb stated. "Personally, I expect that. The team is cautious in what they say, not only to the media but to me as well. They don’t want me to have the mentality of rushing back. They want to take it phase by phase and see where I’m at. I’d be disappointed if I wasn’t back before the All-Star break."

The Giants’ strategy of keeping Cobb uninformed about his rehab progress stems from their desire to protect him from pushing himself too hard. Communication among Cobb’s team at Driveline, where he continues to receive treatment, and the Giants’ medical staff ensures that everyone involved is on the same page.

Cobb expressed curiosity about his return date but acknowledged the team’s approach. "I asked when I’m going to be on the mound, and they wouldn’t tell me," Cobb shared. "But they said it would be sooner than you’d think, so I imagine a few weeks maybe? They really are keeping me in the dark on most of it. They just know how I am."

Cobb Looks Forward to Working With New Pitching Coach Bryan Price

Once Cobb returns to the mound, whenever that may be, he looks forward to working closely with new pitching coach Bryan Price, hired by manager Bob Melvin in the offseason. Cobb praised Price’s pitching philosophy and his emphasis on fundamentals, such as flawless PFPs (pitchers’ fielding practice) and holding the running game.

Cobb highlighted Price’s experience and calm demeanor, expressing excitement about learning from him and working together. "He’s just got a great demeanor, he’s just very calm in his words," Cobb said. "His experience, he’s seen it all, he’s been a part of all of it. It’s going to be really fun to get to know him better and work with him."

Cobb played a crucial role in the Giants’ 2023 rotation, earning his first career All-Star nod and providing stability alongside ace Logan Webb atop a fluctuating rotation. Despite the team’s depth in starting pitching heading into 2024, the Giants rely heavily on Cobb’s contributions once he returns.

Cobb’s determination and positive mindset suggest that he will be ready to step up whenever the team gives him the green light to take the mound. His return will undoubtedly bolster the Giants’ pitching staff and contribute to their pursuit of success in the upcoming season.