Jacob deGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, recently threw off a mound for the first time since undergoing reconstructive right elbow surgery over a year ago. He threw 15 pitches during this session, choosing not to throw any breaking balls. DeGrom expressed his optimism about his progress, stating, “I’m not sure of the timeline, but feeling really good. Touched the mound for the first time today, so that went really well.”
Meanwhile, Max Scherzer is gearing up for his season debut with the Texas Rangers. His next start could mark his return to the pitching rotation after being sidelined. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, last pitched in the 2022 World Series and has been working towards regaining his form. Texas manager Bruce Bochy indicated that Scherzer’s next appearance is likely to be in the big leagues, although no definitive timeline has been provided.
Texas signed deGrom to a substantial deal of $185 million over five years before the 2023 season, recruiting him from his former team, the New York Mets. The Mets, on the other hand, are paying a significant portion of Scherzer’s salary after transferring him to Texas last summer. The financial dynamics of these deals highlight the shifting landscape of player contracts in professional baseball.
DeGrom spent the entirety of his nine-year MLB career with the Mets, but injuries limited his playing time, especially in his final two seasons with the team. The pitcher had an extended absence due to right forearm tightness and an elbow sprain, followed by a delayed start to the 2022 season. Despite these setbacks, deGrom is determined to make a strong comeback after his surgery.
Scherzer, who is approaching his 40th birthday in July, remains focused on extending his baseball career beyond the current season. However, he acknowledges the uncertainty that comes with potential nerve issues that could impact his future in the sport. The pitcher’s resilience and desire to continue pitching reflect his commitment to the game and his team’s success.
As both deGrom and Scherzer navigate their respective paths to recovery and return, their journeys symbolize the inherent challenges and triumphs of professional athletes. These veteran pitchers exemplify perseverance, resilience, and dedication to their craft, inspiring fans and teammates alike with their relentless pursuit of excellence on the field. As they prepare for the upcoming season, both deGrom and Scherzer embody the spirit of resilience that defines champions in the world of baseball.