Jacob deGrom Nears Return After Lengthy Recovery
Jacob deGrom is on the brink of making his much-anticipated return to the mound, a significant milestone in a lengthy road to recovery. The Texas Rangers' prized pitcher has been sidelined since April 2023 due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament, an injury that necessitated Tommy John surgery.
Recovering from such a procedure is no small feat. Typically, pitchers require about 14 months to return to form after Tommy John surgery, a period deGrom has now successfully surpassed. "My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom said, reflecting on the arduous recovery process. With this critical recovery milestone behind him, he is slated to commence a rehab assignment this week.
Rehab Assignment and MLB Rules
Under MLB regulations, pitchers are permitted to go on a rehab assignment for up to 30 days. If deGrom navigates this period without any setbacks, he is projected to rejoin the Rangers by mid-September at the latest. This timeline positions him just in time for the season's final stretch, though the Rangers' current standings make a postseason berth improbable.
The Rangers are currently sitting at a 56-68 record, falling more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card races. Despite their challenges this season, deGrom's return could offer a bright spot for the team and its fans.
Early Season Performance
Before his injury, deGrom made a significant impact in his early performances for Texas. Through just 30 innings across six starts, he boasted a 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Such numbers underscored why the Rangers committed to a five-year deal worth $185 million prior to the 2023 season, banking on deGrom's unparalleled pitching prowess to elevate the team.
On the Verge of Return
Now on the cusp of returning, deGrom is eager to re-enter competition mode. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit," he noted, expressing his readiness to face live hitters once more. His presence promises to boost the team morale and potentially turn the tide for the Rangers, even if the playoffs remain out of reach this year.
Looking Ahead
As the Rangers await deGrom's return, his progress will be closely monitored during the rehab assignment. It's a critical period not just for deGrom but for the entire team, signaling the return of one of baseball's premier pitchers and a key figure in their long-term plans.
In an otherwise challenging season, Jacob deGrom's impending return offers a storyline of resilience and anticipation, embodying the spirit of comeback that defines the sport. The next few weeks will reveal whether deGrom can translate his recovery into on-field success, setting the stage for an impactful return to the mound.