Jacob deGrom is on the cusp of making his highly anticipated return to the mound, marking the end of a challenging recovery journey. Having been sidelined since April 2023 due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament that required Tommy John surgery, deGrom is slated to begin a rehab assignment this week.
A Long Road to Recovery
Tommy John surgery, known for its lengthy recovery timeline, typically sidelines pitchers for around 14 months, and deGrom has now passed this crucial recovery milestone. "My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" said deGrom, reflecting on the extensive rehabilitation period. His return to professional pitching marks a significant moment not only for him but for the Texas Rangers as well.
Preparing for the Comeback
Under Major League Baseball rules, pitchers returning from injury are allowed up to 30 days for rehab assignments. Over this period, deGrom will build up his pitching arm strength, refine his mechanics, and regain his competitive edge. This gradual process is essential for ensuring that he can rejoin the Rangers' rotation without setbacks. If all goes smoothly, deGrom is projected to be back with the Rangers by mid-September at the latest.
DeGrom’s impending return comes at a time when the Rangers are lagging in the standings with a 56-68 record. They are more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card races, making a postseason berth highly unlikely. Even so, deGrom's return holds significant importance for the team, providing a much-needed boost and an opportunity to evaluate the ace’s performance before heading into the next season.
The Impact of deGrom's Absence
Prior to his injury, deGrom was already making a strong impression with the Rangers. Having signed a lucrative five-year deal worth $185 million before the 2023 season, he delivered an impressive 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 30 innings in six starts. These early performances laid the foundation for high expectations, which were abruptly paused by his unfortunate injury.
What Lies Ahead
While the focus remains on how deGrom will perform post-recovery, the pitcher himself seems mentally prepared for the transition. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit," he shared, underscoring the importance of returning to a competitive environment. This sentiment reflects his readiness to reconnect with the rhythm and demands of major league pitching.
A Glimmer of Hope for Texas
Despite the Rangers' current standing, deGrom’s return offers a glimmer of hope and a reason for optimism as the franchise looks ahead. His presence on the mound, even in a season that might not culminate in playoff contention, serves as a cornerstone for the team’s future aspirations. An intact and effective deGrom could be pivotal in rebuilding the team’s competitive edge and making strategic adjustments for the upcoming seasons.
In conclusion, Jacob deGrom’s return is more than just a personal victory; it’s a critical juncture for the Texas Rangers. With his rehab assignment set to commence, eyes will be on one of baseball's premier pitchers as he takes the final steps in his arduous journey back to the mound. His next innings will be closely watched, not just by Rangers fans, but by the entire baseball community, eager to see the ace reclaim his spot among the elites of the game.