What happened: Gerrit Cole allowed five earned runs and nine hits in 4 1/3 innings on September 12. Six days earlier, his first three batters each homered. [AS](https://as.com/us/mlb/pesadilla-gerrit-cole-f202609-n/)
Why it matters: The recent results raise concerns about Cole's reliability in a postseason rotation. Joel Sherman flagged his declining form with the playoff preparation window shrinking.
By the numbers: Through 20 starts in 2026, Cole is 8-9. [AS](https://as.com/us/mlb/pesadilla-gerrit-cole-f202609-n/)
What to watch: Watch whether Cole limits home runs in his next start.