Jacob deGrom is poised to make a highly-anticipated return to the mound, marking a significant moment for both the pitcher and the Texas Rangers. Out of action since April 2023, deGrom has battled back from Tommy John surgery, a procedure he underwent to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Now, after clearing the key 14-month recovery threshold typically required for pitchers, deGrom is slated to begin a rehab assignment this week.
“My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?” deGrom said with a mix of relief and eagerness. His imminent return brings a spark of hope to a Rangers team that has struggled to make a mark this season.
deGrom's Path to Recovery
Tommy John surgery is no small hurdle. Teams often allocate about 14 months for a pitcher's full recovery, and deGrom has now met this critical milestone. MLB rules permit pitchers to partake in a rehab assignment for up to 30 days, offering deGrom a window to regain his form and ensure he is at his best before rejoining the major leagues. If all progresses without any setbacks, he is projected to rejoin the Rangers by mid-September at the latest.
The Significance of deGrom's Return
Heading into the 2023 season, the Rangers signed deGrom to a $185 million, five-year deal, banking on his talent to bolster their pitching rotation. During his early performances with the team, deGrom had a stellar 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio. These stats, however, came from just 30 innings spread across six starts before his injury sidelined him. Although limited, these numbers underscore why the Rangers invested heavily in the ace.
Rangers' Current Standing
As deGrom gears up for his comeback, the Rangers find themselves in a challenging position. With a current record of 56-68, they are more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card races. The hope of securing a postseason berth seems increasingly remote, yet deGrom's return could provide a much-needed morale boost for a team that has struggled this season.
The Influence of Teammates
Re-integrating into the game isn’t just a physical challenge but also a mental one. deGrom acknowledges the importance of his teammates in this journey. “You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit,” he said. The pitcher understands that the camaraderie and competitive environment will be crucial in helping him get back to his peak performance.
Looking Forward
All eyes will be on deGrom as he embarks on his rehab assignment this week. His performance will be closely scrutinized, not just by the Rangers, but by a baseball world eager to see how the seasoned pitcher fares in his return to the mound. With a proven track record and a resilient spirit, deGrom’s comeback journey promises to be a compelling storyline in the remaining weeks of the MLB season.
While the Rangers' playoff hopes may be dim, the return of a top-tier pitcher like deGrom can bring renewed energy and a fighting spirit to the clubhouse. As he reinstates himself into the lineup, deGrom will focus on using his time in rehab to fine-tune his skills, hoping to remind everyone why he's one of the most formidable pitchers in the league.
Even in a season that has not gone as planned for the Rangers, the impending return of Jacob deGrom provides a reason for optimism, showcasing the enduring impact that a single player can have on a team and its aspirations.