Jacob deGrom’s 2026 Season Update: Injury Concerns Delay Start

Jacob deGrom, the two-time Cy Young Award winner, is experiencing a setback as the 2026 MLB season gets underway. The Texas Rangers pitcher was pulled from his scheduled appearance against the Philadelphia Phillies due to neck stiffness, causing concern among fans and team officials alike. However, The Dallas Morning News reports that the Rangers remain optimistic about his recovery. They suggest he could make his season debut during the team’s upcoming road trip.

Early Setback in Spring Training

DeGrom’s spring training efforts were expected to showcase his return to form, but the recent injury casts a shadow on his readiness for opening day. In his absence, Jacob Latz will step in, taking the mound for the second game of the series against the Phillies.

Health History: A Concern for deGrom

DeGrom’s health has been a significant issue in recent years. He averaged just over 49 innings pitched from 2021 to 2024. Following his move from the New York Mets to the Rangers on a lucrative five-year, $185 million contract, he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2023. This surgery limited him to just 41 innings during his initial two seasons with the Rangers.

Despite these challenges, last year marked a resurgence for deGrom. He achieved the following milestones:

• Innings Pitched: 172 2/3 innings—his highest total since 2019.
• ERA: 2.97.
• Awards: Finished eighth in AL Cy Young voting.

These statistics highlight deGrom’s resilience and potential as a top performer in the league.

Jacob deGrom during a spring training game against the Chicago Cubs on March 10, 2026. (Image: Getty Images)

Setting Ambitious Goals for 2026

After his initial start of the spring training season, deGrom expressed his desire to pitch extensively this year. “I’d like to throw 200 innings again,” he stated in early March. “If I stay healthy, I feel like I could have kept going [last season]. I’ll build off that and see how 2026 unfolds.” His commitment to maintaining a high performance level remains evident.

Upcoming Challenges: Road Trip Ahead

Following the weekend series against the Phillies, the Texas Rangers will head to Baltimore for a three-game series against the Orioles, providing an additional opportunity for deGrom to potentially return to the mound.

This road trip is crucial for both deGrom and the Rangers as they aim to solidify their starting rotation and set the tone for the season.

Conclusion

As the Rangers navigate this injury concern, fans remain hopeful for deGrom’s swift recovery. With his impressive track record and ambitious goals for the season, deGrom’s return will be a pivotal moment for the team. Keep an eye on the developments surrounding his health and performance, as they will undoubtedly influence the Rangers’ success in the coming months.

Stay Informed

For the latest updates on Jacob deGrom and the Texas Rangers, visit MLB.com for extensive coverage and analysis.