Jacob deGrom on the Road to Recovery: Update on the Progress of His Rehab and Return to Baseball

Jacob deGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, is making progress in his rehab from right elbow surgery he underwent ten months ago. He has recently started throwing from 90 feet after beginning with 75 feet at the start of spring training. DeGrom plans to increase his throwing distance to 50 throws for a week and then 75 throws for another week before moving on to throwing from 105 feet for three weeks followed by two to three weeks at 120 feet.

Manager Bruce Bochy observed deGrom’s throwing session and was impressed by the ease and carry on his throws. Although the progress is exciting, Bochy noted that deGrom still has a ways to go in his recovery. The Rangers are aiming for an early August return for deGrom, who signed a lucrative five-year, $185 million deal with the team before the 2023 season. Despite being limited to just 30 1/3 innings before his surgery in June, deGrom played a crucial role in the Rangers’ 2023 World Series championship.

If deGrom’s rehab continues without setbacks, he will be cleared to return to the mound no earlier than June. His contract includes a conditional optional for a sixth season in 2028, which will kick in due to his elbow injury. The conditional option will be worth $20 million, $30 million or $37 million based on deGrom’s performance and health following the 2027 season.