Jacob deGrom is poised to make his much-anticipated return to Major League Baseball this week, an event eagerly awaited by both fans and the Texas Rangers organization. The elite pitcher has been sidelined since April 2023, and his absence has been acutely felt by a Rangers team struggling to find its footing in a tough season.
DeGrom's setback came as a result of a torn ulnar collateral ligament, necessitating Tommy John surgery—a procedure that often requires an extensive rehabilitation period of around 14 months. Now, having reached this critical milestone, deGrom is ready to commence a rehab assignment.
"My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom said, highlighting the lengthy and arduous recovery process he has endured. This rehab assignment is more than just a physical necessity; it symbolizes a significant step forward in his journey back to the mound.
Rehab Assignment and Projected Return
MLB rules allow pitchers to engage in rehab assignments for up to 30 days, providing enough time for deGrom to ease back into game action and regain his form. If he encounters no setbacks during this period, the 35-year-old right-hander is projected to rejoin the Rangers by mid-September at the latest. This would be a welcome boost for a team that has had its share of struggles this season.
Prior to his injury, deGrom signed a lucrative five-year contract worth $185 million with the Rangers, hoping to bring his stellar performance to the Lone Star State. In the limited action he saw in early 2023, deGrom showcased his dominant form, posting a 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and a remarkable 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over just 30 innings in six starts.
Team Performance and Playoff Hopes
However, deGrom's exceptional performance was not enough to turn the tide for the Rangers, who currently hold a disappointing 56-68 record. The team finds itself more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card races, making a postseason berth highly unlikely. Although the return of a player of deGrom’s caliber could provide a spark, the reality is that the Rangers are facing an uphill battle.
For deGrom, the rehab assignment is not just about physical preparedness but also mental readiness. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit," he noted, emphasizing the importance of real-game scenarios in his recovery plan. Facing live batters and adjusting to game speed will be crucial steps as he gears up for his return to professional play.
The Long Road Back
The journey back to the mound following Tommy John surgery is often fraught with challenges, both physical and mental. Yet, for an athlete like deGrom, whose career has been defined by perseverance and excellence, the road to recovery has been navigated with determination and focus. The right-hander’s return could serve as a breakout moment for the struggling Rangers, at least from a morale standpoint.
DeGrom's anticipated return also brings attention to the broader issues facing the Rangers. A team with high expectations at the season’s start now finds itself in a precarious position, both in terms of standings and future prospects. DeGrom's contribution on the mound could be a defining factor in how the Rangers address their shortcomings and look ahead to future seasons.
As deGrom embarks on his rehab assignment, all eyes will be on his progress and the Rangers' response to his return. If he can reclaim his dominant form, even a short stint in the latter part of the season could remind everyone why he was so highly sought after and why his presence on the mound is invaluable.
The upcoming weeks will reveal much about both deGrom’s readiness and the Rangers’ ability to make the most of his return. Regardless of the immediate outcomes, deGrom's return marks a significant chapter in a season marked by adversity and underscores the resilience required to excel at the highest levels of professional baseball.