The Texas Rangers have faced challenges this August, but they might soon get a boost with two key pitchers potentially returning. Jacob deGrom and Jon Gray both participated in live batting practice sessions on Saturday, indicating that their return is imminent. Rangers manager Bruce Bochy commented on their performances on the mound through Rangers reporter Abby Jones.
“Both pitched well. They each threw about 45 pitches in three innings,” Bochy said. “Jon is ready to go. As for Jacob, we’ll assess how he feels afterward, but I liked what I saw and his command was good.”
deGrom has shown encouraging progress, having completed his third bullpen session and potentially heading toward a rehab assignment soon.
As for Gray, he appears to be nearing a return to the major league team. Bochy mentioned that Gray is “ready to go,” suggesting he might skip a rehab assignment altogether. If a rehab stint is necessary, Gray would probably require just one start, assuming no setbacks occur.
Rangers’ Jacob deGrom gets real on his live BP session
deGrom also shared his thoughts on his performance from Saturday. While he is still working on achieving better command of his pitches, he noted that he is feeling “good,” which is a key factor as he continues his recovery from Tommy John surgery and aims to return to form.
“Felt good. I didn’t quite place the ball where I wanted, but that’s part of the process,” deGrom said after his live BP session, according to Jones. “Right now, the goal is to get the ball down. Overall, I felt good, I’m ready for rehab starts, and my arm feels great.”
deGrom is eager to return to pitching in 2024. Although the Rangers’ postseason hopes are currently dim due to recent struggles, deGrom is excited about making his MLB comeback.
If there are no setbacks, both deGrom and Gray should soon have an impact on the Rangers’ rotation.
