Unfortunately, the Texas Rangers are not on track to defend their World Series title this season and are unlikely to make the playoffs. However, two key pitchers for next year’s team are set to take the mound during the upcoming series against Seattle, as confirmed by manager Bruce Bochy.
Jacob deGrom recently completed his rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock, impressing with four scoreless innings, one hit allowed, and five strikeouts. The former Cy Young Award winner showcased his talent in four rehab starts, totaling 10 2/3 innings with just one run and three hits allowed, along with 15 strikeouts.
The plan is for deGrom and Max Scherzer, who is also returning from injury, to start in the Rangers’ four-game series against the Mariners next week. Bochy mentioned that the team will adopt a six-man rotation upon the veterans’ return, providing flexibility in scheduling their appearances.
“We have some room to maneuver,” Bochy stated in an interview with the Dallas Morning News. “I won’t disclose the specific dates or plans yet, but that’s what we’re discussing—how to manage this situation.”
Meanwhile, Nathan Eovaldi and Cory Bradford are set to start on Tuesday and Wednesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks, with Andrew Heaney and Jack Leiter also slated to pitch in Seattle. The challenge lies in determining the optimal rest period for deGrom and Scherzer before their next starts.
On top of this, the potential addition of pitching prospect Kumar Rocker adds another layer of complexity for Bochy. Rangers GM Chris Young hinted at the possibility of Rocker making his MLB debut after an impressive performance in Triple-A, where he recorded 18 strikeouts in two starts while allowing only two runs and one walk in 10 innings.
“I’m feeling really confident,” deGrom shared in an interview with Bally Sports Southwest. “It was crucial for me to make this final start, fine-tune my off-speed pitches, and prepare to contribute to the team.”
DeGrom’s last appearance for the Rangers was in April 2023 before undergoing surgery for elbow inflammation. He signed a lucrative contract with the team and still has three years remaining, along with a club option for 2028 that could see him earning up to $135 million.