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USATSI
The Texas Rangers are set to bring right-hander Jacob deGrom back to their active roster this Friday, with him starting against the Seattle Mariners. This marks deGrom’s first regular season appearance in the major leagues since April 28, 2023.
At 36 years old, deGrom made six starts for the Rangers last season before suffering a tear in his ulnar collateral ligament, which led to his second Tommy John surgery. Despite the Rangers facing slim playoff chances—entering Tuesday six games behind the nearest playoff spot in the American League—deGrom has expressed a strong wish to return this month rather than wait until next year.
“Going through this process, I’ve been fortunate to feel good throughout with no significant setbacks. It brings peace of mind to get out there, make a few starts, and ideally pitch every fifth day. This way, I can approach the offseason more normally,” deGrom told reporters recently. “If I don’t pitch soon, I might feel like I’m in rehab for nearly two years. But if I can get on the mound and recover well, I’ll be able to prepare for the upcoming season as I usually do.”
deGrom is regarded as one of the most accomplished active pitchers in all of MLB. He is a two-time recipient of the Cy Young Award and has been honored as an All-Star four times. Before the 2023 season, he signed a five-year contract worth $185 million with the Rangers. In the six starts he made prior to his injury, he achieved a 161 ERA+ and an impressive strikeout-to-walk ratio of 11.25.
Additionally, deGrom will not be the only notable figure making his season debut for the Rangers against the Mariners, as former first-round pick Kumar Rocker is scheduled to start the series opener on Thursday night.
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Jacob deGrom Set to Make Highly Anticipated Return for Texas Rangers Against Mariners
Overview of Jacob deGrom’s Comeback
Jacob deGrom, the Texas Rangers ace, is set to make his highly anticipated return to the mound on Friday against the Seattle Mariners. This marks his first start in Major League Baseball (MLB) since April 2023, after an extended recovery from injury. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how deGrom performs after such a lengthy hiatus, especially given his track record as one of the league’s top pitchers.
Injury History and Recovery
DeGrom’s journey back to the game has been fraught with challenges, primarily due to a series of injuries that have limited his playtime in recent seasons. Here’s a brief overview of his injury timeline:
- April 2023: DeGrom sustained an injury that sidelined him for the majority of the season.
- Rehabilitation: Following surgery, he underwent a rigorous rehabilitation program, focusing on strength and conditioning to ensure a full recovery.
- Return to Practice: In recent weeks, deGrom has participated in simulated games and bullpen sessions, indicating he is ready to compete.
Why deGrom’s Return is Significant
Jacob deGrom’s return is significant for several reasons:
- Impact on Team Performance: The Rangers are in a competitive position, and deGrom’s presence can enhance their chances for postseason success.
- Star Power: DeGrom is a two-time Cy Young Award winner, and his skills can elevate the entire team’s performance.
- Fan Engagement: Fans are excited about his comeback, which is expected to draw large crowds and boost viewership.
Matchup: Texas Rangers vs. Seattle Mariners
The upcoming game against the Seattle Mariners is critical for the Rangers, not just as a test for deGrom, but also in the context of their playoff aspirations. Here’s a brief breakdown of the matchup:
| Team | Current Standing | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Rangers | 2nd in AL West | Jacob deGrom, Corey Seager, Adolis García |
| Seattle Mariners | 3rd in AL West | Julio Rodríguez, Ty France, Luis Castillo |
What to Expect from deGrom
As deGrom takes the mound, fans and analysts will be keen on observing several key aspects of his performance:
- Velocity: DeGrom is known for his exceptional fastball speed. Observing how his velocity holds up will be critical.
- Control: After a long absence, his ability to command pitches effectively will be under scrutiny.
- Inning Load: It will be interesting to see how many innings he can pitch and how the coaching staff manages his workload.
Benefits of DeGrom’s Return
DeGrom’s return has multiple benefits extending beyond his individual performance:
- Boosting Team Morale: His comeback can invigorate teammates, fostering a winning spirit.
- Creating Depth in Rotation: With deGrom back, the Rangers can afford to rotate pitchers more strategically, keeping arms fresher.
- Fan Excitement: Increased attendance and viewership can lead to greater revenue for the team.
First-Hand Experience: DeGrom’s Preparation
DeGrom has been vocal about his experience during recovery. He has emphasized the importance of mental resilience alongside physical rehabilitation. In recent interviews, he noted:
“The path to recovery wasn’t easy, but I learned a lot about myself and what it means to be a competitor. I’m ready to step back on the field and give it my all.”
Case Studies: Successful Returns from Injury
DeGrom isn’t alone in his journey. Numerous MLB players have made successful comebacks from injury. Here are a few notable cases:
- Clayton Kershaw: After multiple injuries, Kershaw returned to dominate the league, proving that recovery can lead to renewed success.
- Madison Bumgarner: Following a significant injury, Bumgarner made a successful comeback, showcasing resilience and determination.
Conclusion
As Jacob deGrom prepares for his return to the Texas Rangers, anticipation builds among fans and teammates. His performance against the Seattle Mariners will be a crucial moment not only for him but for the entire team’s playoff hopes. With his extensive skills and the lessons learned during recovery, deGrom’s comeback promises to be a pivotal chapter in his storied career.
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