Jacob deGrom is nearing a highly anticipated return to the mound, having been sidelined since April 2023 due to a significant elbow injury. The ace pitcher for the Texas Rangers is set to commence a rehab assignment this week, signaling an important step in his recovery process.
The two-time Cy Young Award winner's extended hiatus was necessitated by Tommy John surgery following a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Teams generally expect about 14 months for full recovery from this procedure, a milestone deGrom has now surpassed. This timeline places deGrom on schedule, adhering to MLB rules that permit pitchers a maximum of 30 days on a rehab assignment.
"My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom remarked, reflecting on the arduous rehabilitation journey that has kept him away from competitive play.
The Texas Rangers, who inked deGrom to a blockbuster five-year, $185 million contract prior to the 2023 season, are eagerly awaiting his return. In his brief stint before the injury, deGrom exhibited his usual dominance, boasting a 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over just 30 innings across six starts. His presence could have been a game-changer for a team currently holding a 56-68 record.
Although a postseason berth appears increasingly improbable for the Rangers, with the team languishing more than 10 games out of contention in both the American League West and wild-card races, deGrom’s return adds a glimmer of hope. His return to the roster, projected by mid-September if all goes well, offers the team a valuable opportunity to assess his condition and effectiveness ahead of the next season.
During his rehab assignment, deGrom will have the chance to face live opponents, a crucial step in regaining his competitive edge. Speaking on the importance of game simulation, deGrom noted, "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit."
For the Rangers, the health and return to form of their high-profile pitcher is a critical concern. With the substantial financial commitment made to secure deGrom’s services, his ability to perform at the peak of his capabilities is essential for the team's future aspirations. Despite their current standings, the Rangers are keen to field a competitive team built around deGrom’s elite pitching, hoping to reignite their postseason ambitions in the years to come.
As deGrom prepares to embark on his rehab assignment, all eyes will be on his progress and performance. His journey back to the mound not only marks a personal milestone but also represents a pivotal moment for the Rangers' organizational strategy. By carefully managing his comeback, both deGrom and the team aim to ensure that he remains a cornerstone of the Rangers' pitching staff for the foreseeable future.