MLB Rumors: Jacob deGrom’s return timetable is unclear
The Texas Rangers have played coy about Jacob deGrom’s injuries to start the season. While he’s been on the injured list twice, the organization knew deGrom had preexisting issues when they signed him to a massive five-year, $185 million deal. If deGrom can even make half his scheduled starts in a season, he’s probably worth the money, especially if he can remain healthy for a theoretical playoff run.
Nonetheless, Texas general manager Chris Young probably hoped deGrom would remain a factor through the first month-plus of the regular season, at least. That hasn’t been the case, and now the Rangers have no idea when their ace will come back.
Per the Dallas Morning News, deGrom can still only play light catch, meaning there’s no real timetable for his return to the mound at this juncture.
By no means does this suggest he’ll be out for the entire season, but his previously-scheduled IL timetable is no more. deGrom addressed this and more a few days ago:
“I want to be out there,” deGrom said. “There’s a little inflammation in there, so the goal is to get that knocked out here in the next few days and resume throwing. So, staying optimistic about it.”
The Rangers are right to be cautious with deGrom, but they still need him on the mound if they are to reach their full potential. Ownership spent a ton of money on him, Corey Seager, Marcus Semien and more with the expectation those investments will pay off in the form of wins and, eventually, a postseason run.