Jacob deGrom is on the brink of making a much-anticipated return to the mound for the Texas Rangers. Sidelined since April 2023, the star pitcher is now gearing up for a rehab assignment with hopes of rejoining the team by mid-September.
deGrom, who underwent Tommy John surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his throwing arm, has just passed the critical 14-month recovery period. This milestone marks a significant step forward in his journey back to Major League Baseball.
"My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom remarked, emphasizing his readiness to return to competitive play. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit."
Once pitchers clear surgeons' projections for recovery—usually around 14 months—MLB rules permit a rehab assignment lasting up to 30 days. This allows players ample time to regain their form and ensure they are game-ready before rejoining the roster full-time.
deGrom's impending return brings a glimmer of hope in an otherwise challenging season for the Rangers. Texas currently holds a 56-68 record, placing them over 10 games behind in both the American League West and the wild-card races. Their postseason prospects appear dim.
Nonetheless, deGrom's return is a key story not only for the team but for fans who have been eagerly awaiting his presence on the mound. Prior to his injury, deGrom signed a lucrative five-year deal with Texas worth $185 million. His initial performances for the Rangers lived up to the high expectations, maintaining a stellar 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over just 30 innings in six starts.
While deGrom's return may be too late to salvage the Rangers' postseason aspirations this year, his presence will be crucial for assessing the team's outlook in future seasons. His early-season stats showcased his potential to be a game-changer for the franchise, providing stability and excellence at the top of the rotation.
The Rangers' front office and fans alike will be keenly watching deGrom's rehab assignment, hoping it proceeds without setbacks. The right-hander's ability to stay healthy and perform at his peak levels will be essential for Texas as they strive for competitiveness in the upcoming campaigns.
For a pitcher of deGrom's caliber, the journey back from Tommy John surgery is a delicate balance of patience and perseverance. His experience and skill are invaluable assets that the Rangers will need to leverage fully as they rebuild and aim for future success.
If all goes according to plan, deGrom will bring much-needed depth and talent back to the mound, potentially giving Texas a foundation to bolster their pitching staff and make strategic moves in the offseason.
The anticipation surrounding deGrom's return serves as a reminder of his impact on the game and the Rangers' desire to see their high-profile investment pay dividends both in the immediate future and the long haul.