FRISCO, Texas – Jacob deGrom has made significant progress in his journey to return to the big league mound this season, a priority for the Texas ace even as the Rangers find themselves largely out of playoff contention.
On Thursday night, deGrom pitched in a game for the first time since April 28, 2023, delivering 29 pitches across two innings during a minor league rehab assignment at Double-A Frisco.
With 34 games left to play, the defending World Series champions started the day 10 games behind in the AL West, rendering deGrom’s return unlikely to influence the playoff race.
Nevertheless, the return is significant for the 36-year-old and for the franchise that awarded deGrom a $185 million, five-year contract during the 2023 offseason, despite his lengthy injury history. He made only six starts before undergoing his second major elbow surgery.
Editor’s Picks
1 Related
“It’s very important,” deGrom stated, having struck out three batters despite allowing two hits and a run early in his outing. “This way, I can approach the offseason in a more normal fashion. If I don’t get the chance to pitch, it’ll feel like I’ve been rehabbing the entire time, which has been nearly a year and a half.”
While location posed a challenge, deGrom managed to throw 21 of his pitches for strikes. The four-time All-Star showcased a mix of fastballs, including one clocked at 100 mph which accounted for his first strikeout, alongside sliders and a few changeups.
He mentioned that these three pitches are likely all he will use in his upcoming games this season and is uncertain about the number of rehab assignments required.
“We haven’t determined that yet,” deGrom noted. “It’s a step-by-step process. I need to ensure I recover well tomorrow, and then we can formulate a plan based on that.”
Having spent his first nine major league seasons with the Mets, deGrom recorded only 156⅓ innings over 26 starts in his final two years with the team.
He missed the last three months of 2021 due to right forearm tightness and a sprained elbow, then did not make his first major league start in 2022 until August 2, following a late spring training shutdown due to a stress reaction in his right scapula.
Last season, Texas won all six games started by deGrom (2-0, 2.67 ERA) before his injury. His last appearance was against the New York Yankees, where he left early due to injury concerns for the second time in three starts. He underwent surgery on June 12 last year.
DeGrom’s competitive spirit was palpable, as he appeared to engage playfully with the home plate umpire at one moment, only to clarify that he was questioning a pitch called a ball.
“Once you step on the mound, you’re competing,” deGrom remarked. “That’s what we cherish. After missing a year, I am eager to be back. This is just the first step.”
Meanwhile, three-time Cy Young winner Max Scherzer was expected to move closer to his return from right shoulder fatigue with a rehab start at Frisco on Friday night.
However, the Rangers decided to abandon that plan with Scherzer, and there has been no immediate update on the next steps for the 40-year-old, who has been limited to just eight starts due to offseason back surgery and ongoing nerve and arm issues this season.
“`html
Jacob deGrom Takes Major Step in Rehab Assignment as He Eyes Return to Big League Mound
Overview of Jacob deGrom’s Injury and Rehab Journey
Jacob deGrom, the two-time Cy Young Award winner, has been on a long and arduous journey back to the big leagues following his injury struggles. After a series of setbacks that kept him off the mound, deGrom has now taken a significant step in his rehabilitation assignment, reigniting hopes for his return to Major League Baseball (MLB). This article delves into the details of his rehab assignment, the implications for the Texas Rangers, and what fans can expect as he moves closer to a comeback.
The Importance of Rehabilitation Assignments
Rehabilitation assignments are crucial for players recovering from injuries. These assignments allow athletes to:
- Regain their rhythm and timing.
- Test their physical limitations in a controlled environment.
- Build endurance and strength without the high stakes of a major league game.
- Receive feedback from coaches and trainers on their performance.
For deGrom, this rehab assignment is not just about physical recovery; it is also about mental preparation for the high-pressure environment of the MLB.
Recent Developments in deGrom’s Rehab Assignment
As of late September 2023, Jacob deGrom has participated in several minor league games over the past weeks. Reports indicate that he has been showing significant improvement in his pitching mechanics and velocity, raising optimism among fans and management alike.
Key Highlights from deGrom’s Recent Games:
| Date | Opponent | Innings Pitched | Strikeouts | Earned Runs</th |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 15, 2023 | Arkansas Travelers | 4 | 6 | 1 |
| September 22, 2023 | Frisco RoughRiders | 5 | 8 | 0 |
| September 29, 2023 | San Antonio Missions | 5 | 7 | 2 |
Expectations for deGrom’s Return
As Jacob deGrom continues to impress during his rehab outings, expectations are building for his return to the Texas Rangers’ starting rotation. The organization has been cautious with his recovery, emphasizing the need for patience to ensure he is fully prepared to compete at the highest level.
Projected Timeline for Return
Industry experts predict that, if deGrom continues on his current trajectory, he could make his return to the MLB by mid-October. This timeline would allow him to contribute to the Rangers as they aim for a strong finish in the postseason.
Analyzing deGrom’s Impact on the Texas Rangers
The return of Jacob deGrom would be a game-changer for the Texas Rangers. His elite pitching ability can significantly enhance the team’s performance in crucial games, especially as they gear up for the playoffs.
Key Benefits of deGrom’s Return:
- Strengthening the Rotation: deGrom provides a top-tier option for the rotation, complementing other star pitchers.
- Boosting Team Morale: His presence on the mound can uplift the team’s confidence, especially in high-pressure scenarios.
- Playoff Experience: With his track record of success in crucial games, deGrom’s experience will be invaluable in the postseason.
Case Studies: Successful Comebacks from Similar Injuries
Many MLB players have faced similar injury challenges and have successfully made comebacks. Here are a few notable examples:
| Player | Injury | Years Missed | Post-Return Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clayton Kershaw | Shoulder Injury | 1 | 3× All-Star after return |
| Justin Verlander | Tommy John Surgery | 2 | Winner of 2022 AL Cy Young |
| Stephen Strasburg | Thoracic Outlet Syndrome | 1.5 | Pitched in 2022 World Series |
First-Hand Experience: Insights from deGrom’s Journey
Jacob deGrom has openly shared his thoughts about the rehabilitation process. His dedication and mental toughness serve as an inspiration to many young athletes. During a recent interview, he stated:
“Every day is a new challenge, but I’m committed to coming back stronger. The support from my teammates and the fans motivates me to push through the hard days.”
Preparing for deGrom’s Return: What Fans Can Do
As fans eagerly await Jacob deGrom’s return to the mound, here are some ways to support him and the Texas Rangers:
- Stay Informed: Follow updates on his rehab progress via social media and sports news outlets.
- Attend Games: Show support by attending games, especially those where he is expected to pitch.
- Engage on Social Media: Share messages of encouragement and excitement for his return.
The Road Ahead: Final Thoughts
The road to recovery for Jacob deGrom has been long and challenging, but with each passing day, he is one step closer to returning to the big league mound. As he takes these significant strides in his rehab assignment, both the Texas Rangers and their fans eagerly anticipate the dynamic pitcher who dominated the game before his injury. The excitement surrounding his potential return only adds to the already thrilling atmosphere of the MLB postseason.
“`
