Jacob deGrom enters the 2025 MLB season with a mix of optimism and caution as both he and the Texas Rangers aim to maximize his impact while managing his health. After undergoing his second Tommy John surgery in June 2023, deGrom made a brief return in September 2024, delivering three starts with a 1.69 ERA and 14 strikeouts over 10 2/3 innings, showcasing his enduring dominance on the mound.

In his recent Spring Training debut on March 8, 2025, deGrom exhibited vintage form, pitching two perfect innings against the Kansas City Royals, including three strikeouts. His fastball reached 98 mph, and he effectively utilized his slider and curveball, indicating a promising return to form.

To ensure deGrom’s sustained health throughout the season, Rangers manager Bruce Bochy has strategically placed him as the fifth starter in the rotation. This positioning allows deGrom to have additional rest between starts, which is crucial given his injury history. Bochy emphasized the importance of a gradual approach, stating, “We want to be smart with this and keep him healthy throughout the season.”

Despite this cautious management, expectations for deGrom’s performance remain high. His career statistics, including a 2.52 ERA and a WHIP under 1.00, underscore his status as one of the most formidable pitchers in the game. Analysts note that when healthy, deGrom’s ability to dominate hitters is unparalleled, making him a potential game-changer for the Rangers’ postseason aspirations.

Fantasy baseball enthusiasts share this optimism, with some predicting that deGrom could surpass 175 innings and achieve over 225 strikeouts if he maintains his health throughout the season. Such projections highlight the belief in his capacity to return to elite form and significantly contribute to the Rangers’ success.

However, deGrom’s recent injury history cannot be overlooked. He has made only 35 starts over the past four seasons, including just nine since joining the Rangers, creating an inherent risk in relying heavily on his availability. This reality has led to tempered expectations among some analysts, who caution that while deGrom’s talent is undeniable, his durability remains a concern.

The Rangers’ approach reflects a balance between ambition and prudence. By managing deGrom’s workload carefully and providing ample rest, they aim to harness his exceptional skills while mitigating the risk of re-injury. This strategy serves both deGrom’s long-term health and the team’s goal of a deep postseason run, where his presence could be pivotal.

In summary, the 2025 season holds significant promise for Jacob deGrom and the Texas Rangers. If deGrom can maintain his health and replicate his past performances, he has the potential to be a cornerstone of the Rangers’ rotation, propelling them toward their championship aspirations. Nonetheless, mindful management and realistic expectations will be key to navigating the season successfully.

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