Jacob deGrom is on the verge of making a highly anticipated return to the mound, marking a significant milestone in his recovery journey. The Texas Rangers ace, sidelined since April 2023, is slated to begin his rehab assignment this week, a crucial step following his Tommy John surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament.
A Long Road to Recovery
Tommy John surgery, a procedure dreaded by pitchers, typically necessitates about 14 months of recuperation before a player is deemed fit to return at full capacity. deGrom has now surpassed this essential 14-month recovery threshold, giving hope to both the player and his team. "My arm feels great except now it's just been, what, how many months? Fourteen?" deGrom remarked, reflecting on the arduous rehabilitation process he's undergone.
A Glimpse of What Was
Prior to his injury, deGrom had shown flashes of brilliance in his early appearances for the Rangers. Sporting a 2.67 ERA (161 ERA+) and an impressive 11.25 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 30 innings in just six starts, deGrom had clearly justified the Rangers' investment in him. The five-year, $185 million deal he secured with Texas before the 2023 season underscored the team's confidence in his abilities to anchor their pitching staff.
Rehab Assignment and MLB Rules
Under Major League Baseball rules, players are allowed to go on a rehab assignment for up to 30 days. If deGrom experiences no setbacks during this period, he is projected to rejoin the Texas Rangers by mid-September at the latest. His imminent return, despite the extended absence, is eagerly anticipated by his teammates and fans alike. "You've got your [teammates] in there. You go face other guys, and I think that'll help a little bit," deGrom stated, highlighting the competitive drive essential to his rehab process.
The Rangers' Current Standing
The Rangers, however, face an uphill battle as they currently hold a 56-68 record, trailing more than 10 games behind in both the American League West and wild-card races. The slim chance of a postseason berth dims the immediate impact of deGrom's return for the 2023 season. Nevertheless, his presence on the mound would not only serve as a personal triumph but also offer a morale boost and a foundation for the team’s future aspirations.
While deGrom's journey back to the mound has been long and grueling, his imminent return holds promise for the Rangers. As he prepares to take the next step in his rehab assignment, the baseball world watches closely, hopeful for a successful comeback of one of the game’s most electric pitchers.