Jacob deGrom's highly anticipated return to the mound is drawing near, much to the excitement of Rangers fans and the baseball community. The two-time Cy Young Award winner has been sidelined since April 2023 after undergoing Tommy John surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Now, 14 months post-surgery, deGrom is set to begin a rehab assignment this week—a crucial step in his comeback journey.
Tommy John surgery has a reputation for requiring a long recovery period, typically around 14 months, and deGrom has now cleared this critical threshold. MLB rules stipulate that pitchers can participate in rehab assignments for up to 30 days, providing deGrom with a window to regain his form and stamina. According to projections, if all goes smoothly, the ace right-hander could rejoin the Texas Rangers by mid-September.
Reflecting on his rehabilitation process, deGrom shared, "My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" This confession underscores the physical and mental fortitude required to navigate such an extended recovery period. DeGrom also expressed eagerness to re-engage with competitive play. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit," he noted.
DeGrom's early contributions to the Rangers this season were nothing short of remarkable. Before his injury, he posted a 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 30 innings in six starts. His performance was an early testament to the high expectations set forth when he signed a lucrative five-year, $185 million contract with Texas prior to the 2023 season.
However, the Rangers' 2023 campaign has been a challenging one. With a current record of 56-68, the team finds itself more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card races. Consequently, a postseason appearance seems increasingly unlikely. Despite this, deGrom's return could serve as a morale boost for the team and its fanbase, even if the immediate playoff prospects are dim.
The Rangers' struggles this season accentuate the significance of deGrom's return. While it may be too late to reverse the team's fortunes this year, his presence on the mound could provide a much-needed sense of stability and hope. Moreover, his performance during the rehab assignment will be closely scrutinized not only by the Rangers but also by the entire baseball world, eager to see if deGrom can once again reach his former heights.
As the rehab stint begins, both deGrom and the Rangers will be cautiously optimistic. The journey from a medical procedure as severe as Tommy John surgery to reclaiming an elite level of play is fraught with potential setbacks. Nonetheless, deGrom's recovery thus far has been encouraging, and his return to action is a significant milestone.
In the broader context of his career, deGrom's perseverance and dedication to returning to the game are emblematic of the challenges faced by many athletes. His experience underscores the unpredictable nature of sports, where even the most skilled and celebrated players are not immune to injury and adversity. As he steps back onto the mound, the baseball world will be watching, hopeful that one of its premier talents can once again dazzle and dominate.
Whether or not the Rangers manage to turn their season around, deGrom's comeback serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience and determination. For a team and fanbase in need of a lift, his return offers a glimmer of light amid a tough season. This chapter in deGrom's illustrious career is poised to be a testament to his enduring prowess and love for the game of baseball.