Jacob deGrom is on the verge of making a significant return to Major League Baseball. The star pitcher, who has been sidelined since April 2023, is slated to begin a rehab assignment this week. This marks a crucial milestone in his recovery journey following Tommy John surgery.
DeGrom, who signed a lucrative five-year, $185 million deal with the Texas Rangers prior to the 2023 season, underwent the surgery due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament. The standard recovery timeline for pitchers after such a procedure is approximately 14 months. DeGrom has now surpassed this crucial recovery threshold, bringing him closer to returning to the mound.
"My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom remarked, reflecting on his extended absence from the game. The pitcher is evidently eager to rejoin his teammates and face real competition once again. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit," he added.
MLB rules permit pitchers to go on a rehab assignment for up to 30 days. If deGrom progresses without setbacks, he is projected to rejoin the Rangers by mid-September at the latest. His return would be a welcome boost for a Rangers team currently languishing in the standings.
In his brief stint with Texas before his injury, deGrom showcased his elite skills. Over just 30 innings in six starts, he amassed a 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio. These statistics underscore the potential impact of his return on the team's performance.
However, the Rangers face an uphill battle even with deGrom's potential comeback. They currently hold a 56-68 record, trailing by more than 10 games in both the American League West and wild-card races. This significant gap makes a postseason berth highly unlikely, dampening hopes that deGrom's return could catalyze a late-season surge.
For deGrom, the rehab assignment represents more than just a step towards full recovery; it's a chance to reestablish his place among the elite pitchers in the league. The Rangers’ management will undoubtedly monitor his progress closely, hopeful that their significant investment will soon yield dividends on the field.
DeGrom's journey back from such a crucial and complex surgery is a testament to his resilience and determination. His return to the field would not only invigorate his team but also captivate fans who have eagerly awaited his comeback. As the Rangers prepare for what remains of their challenging season, all eyes will be on Jacob deGrom, hoping that his presence can offer a glimmer of hope in an otherwise trying campaign.