Jacob deGrom is poised for a pivotal return to the mound, bringing much-needed anticipation to a Texas Rangers team that has struggled through the 2023 season. Having been sidelined since April following Tommy John surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament, deGrom begins his rehab assignment this week.
The journey back has been long, marked by the typical 14-month recovery period customary for pitchers following Tommy John surgery. Now, deGrom has successfully cleared this crucial recovery milestone. "My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom commented on his progress, underscoring his readiness to face competitive play again.
MLB rules stipulate that pitchers can engage in rehab assignments for up to 30 days, a window that deGrom will utilize to regain his form and stamina. If everything progresses without setbacks, he is projected to rejoin the Rangers by mid-September at the latest.
deGrom's early 2023 performances, though limited, were a showcase of his talent. Over just 30 innings spread across six starts, he maintained a 2.67 ERA and an 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio, highlighting his value and prowess on the mound. These statistics were a promising start to his tenure with the Rangers, who inked him to a five-year deal worth $185 million prior to the season.
The Rangers, however, find themselves in a challenging position as deGrom prepares to return. With a current record of 56-68, they are more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card standings. The hope of a postseason berth appears slim for the team, making deGrom's return more about building momentum for next season than altering the course of this one.
When asked about the prospect of facing live batters again, deGrom remarked, "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit." His eagerness to compete is evident, reflecting the mindset of an elite athlete eager to return to form.
As the Rangers look ahead, deGrom’s successful return could serve as a cornerstone for the team's future success. Even in a season where the playoffs seem out of reach, his presence can provide a much-needed morale boost for the team and its fanbase.
The final stretch of the rehab process will be crucial. The Rangers and their supporters will watch closely, hoping to see deGrom in peak condition, bringing his formidable skills back to the mound. His performance in these closing weeks could offer a glimpse of a brighter, more competitive 2024 season for Texas.
For now, the baseball world waits with bated breath to see Jacob deGrom's next chapter unfold, beginning this week with his return to the grind of professional play.