Jacob deGrom is poised to make a highly anticipated return to the mound after a lengthy recovery period. The star pitcher has been sidelined since April 2023 due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament requiring Tommy John surgery. This week, deGrom will begin a rehab assignment, signaling a critical step forward in his recovery process.
DeGrom's journey back has been a long one, consistent with the typical 14-month recovery period allotted for pitchers undergoing Tommy John surgery. Having now cleared that crucial recovery threshold, deGrom is set to rejoin the Texas Rangers, with projections indicating a return by mid-September if he encounters no setbacks.
Describing his ordeal and readiness to return, deGrom stated, "My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" His eagerness to contribute to his team again is palpable, as he shared, "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit."
DeGrom’s return is highly anticipated by the Rangers, especially given his impressive early performances for the team before his injury. Prior to the 2023 season, deGrom signed a lucrative five-year deal worth $185 million with Texas. In just 30 innings over six starts, he posted a commendable 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+), alongside an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
However, the Rangers find themselves in a tough spot this season. With a current record of 56-68, the team is more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and the wild-card races. As the probability of securing a postseason berth diminishes, deGrom’s return could at least offer a morale boost and something positive to build on for next season.
The upcoming rehab assignment will be a critical period for deGrom, as he reacclimates to the rigor of competitive pitching. MLB rules allow pitchers to go on a rehab assignment for up to 30 days, offering a structured opportunity for deGrom to sharpen his skills and gauge his readiness for Major League action once more.
While the season may be slipping away from the Rangers, the return of a pitcher of deGrom’s caliber is a silver lining. His presence on the mound could reinvigorate the team and provide fans with a glimpse of what might be possible in the years ahead. For deGrom, it’s a step towards re-establishing himself as one of the elite pitchers in the game, following a well-trodden but grueling path to recovery.
As the Rangers navigate the remainder of the season, all eyes will be on Jacob deGrom’s progress. Should everything proceed smoothly, his return by mid-September could serve as a crucial moment for both the player and his team, setting the stage for a potentially brighter future.