Gerrit Cole Surpassed Record for No. 1 Draft Picks
The Yankees pitcher earned his 162nd career victory in a 9-2 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Baseball
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Gerrit Cole recorded his 162nd career win to surpass Mike Moore for the most victories by a No. 1 overall MLB draft pick. The performance helped lead the New York Yankees to a 9-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Why it matters
The win marks a historic milestone for Cole, who was selected first overall in the 2011 MLB Draft. The victory also bolsters the Yankees as they maintain their postseason push with an 89-64 record.
Gerrit Cole achieved his 162nd career win by pitching six innings of four-hit ball, throwing 90 pitches with 62 strikes. During the same game, Ben Rice hit his 39th home run of the season to support the team victory.
The players
Gerrit Cole
He is an elite starting pitcher for the New York Yankees who has established himself as one of the most successful No. 1 overall draft picks in major league history.
Ben Rice
He is a New York Yankees player who provided offensive support with his 39th home run of the season.
Mike Moore
He is a former professional baseball player who held the previous record for most career wins by a No. 1 overall draft pick.
Eduardo Rodriguez
He is a professional baseball pitcher who faced the Yankees during the contest.
The details
The Yankees offense jumped out early, scoring five runs in the opening inning against Arizona pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez. Cole struck out six batters over his six innings of work to secure the win at Chase Field.
Timeline
Gerrit Cole recorded his 162nd career win on September 18, 2026.
Gerrit Cole was selected No. 1 overall in the MLB Draft in 2011.
Mike Moore was selected No. 1 overall in the MLB Draft in 1981.
Season Trajectory
This win is a significant milestone for a player long viewed as a cornerstone of modern pitching rotations. The victory helps secure the Yankees current 89-64 record as they look to close a four-game gap behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East.
The Yankees now sit at 89-64, keeping them four games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East standings. Cole remains a projected starter for the impending American League Wild Card Series.
The takeaway
Cole's achievement underscores the long-term career value that top draft picks are expected to provide to their organizations. Fans should monitor his upcoming postseason appearances as he remains central to the team's playoff strategy.
What happens next
Gerrit Cole is expected to start in the upcoming American League Wild Card Series.
Further reading
For more on the Yankees' push to the postseason, visit the Baseball section.
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