Every Texas Rangers starting pitcher has already made their spring training debut except for Jacob deGrom. Despite being physically healthy, deGrom is following a personalized schedule, similar to other veteran players, with his first appearance expected imminently. Rangers manager Skip Schumaker shared this update with reporters on Sunday in Surprise, Arizona, hinting that deGrom’s time on the mound during spring training is approaching.
Schumaker did not specify exactly when deGrom would take the mound but noted the right-hander recently threw more than 30 pitches during a bullpen session on a practice field at the team’s spring training complex. The Rangers are maintaining a spring training pattern for deGrom similar to last year’s approach as they prepare him for the upcoming season.
Reviewing Jacob deGrom’s Spring Training Routine from Last Season
In the previous season, deGrom made three starts in the Cactus League. His first outing was on March 8 in Surprise, facing Kansas City, where he pitched two innings and threw 31 pitches. After a break of more than a week, deGrom’s next start occurred on March 19 against Seattle, extending to four innings and 57 pitches. His final spring start came on March 25 against Kansas City in an exhibition held at Globe Life Field, during which he threw four innings and 70 pitches.
Following these spring appearances, deGrom made his regular-season debut on normal rest against the Boston Red Sox. He pitched five innings and threw 73 pitches in that game. Manager Schumaker noted that deGrom was very pleased with how his pitching workload was mapped out last season.
“He really liked how it was mapped out last year and it worked,”
Skip Schumaker, Texas Rangers Manager
“So, we said, ‘OK I think that’s a good idea also.’ That’s really good coaching, by the way. See how that works?”
Skip Schumaker, Texas Rangers Manager
DeGrom’s Comeback and Performance Last Season
During his return last year, deGrom recorded a 12-8 win-loss tally, maintained a 2.97 ERA, and struck out 185 batters, with only 37 walks allowed. His WHIP stood at an impressive 0.92, helping him place eighth in the American League Cy Young Award voting. Notably, he earned the AL Comeback Player of the Year award after completing his first full season since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023. His 172.2 innings pitched was his highest since 2019, when he last topped 200 innings during his tenure with the New York Mets.
Strategic Planning for deGrom’s Opening Season and Pitching Schedule
The Rangers structured deGrom’s spring schedule partly because he is not slated to be the opening day starter. His season began in the team’s fourth game to utilize rest days effectively, helping preserve his pitching workload. This strategy proved successful, as most of deGrom’s 30 starts last season were on extra rest.
When asked about naming the opening day starter, Schumaker refrained from announcing a choice and avoided hinting at one specific pitcher.
“I don’t want to announce it until I tell the guy first,”
Skip Schumaker, Texas Rangers Manager
Preparation and What Lies Ahead for Jacob deGrom
With Jacob deGrom’s spring training debut imminent, the Texas Rangers are carefully managing his workload this year to support his durability after major surgery. His performance last season underscored his ability to contribute at a high level despite recent setbacks, and the team’s cautious approach reflects the importance of protecting a veteran ace while preparing for a competitive season. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how deGrom’s spring training progresses and how he fits into the Rangers’ starting rotation in the weeks ahead.
