The anticipation for Jacob deGrom's first outing as a Texas Ranger is reaching a fever pitch, but are the Rangers playing it too safe? While it's understandable that a team would want to carefully manage a star pitcher's workload, especially one with a history of injuries, the current approach to deGrom's spring debut is raising eyebrows. Manager Skip Schumaker recently revealed that deGrom has been throwing side sessions, including a 30-pitch workout, and is slated for a Cactus League start very soon. This news comes after deGrom arrived at spring training in perfect health. However, the Rangers are intentionally taking a gradual approach to integrating the 37-year-old right-hander into their Cactus League pitching rotation. Schumaker explained that deGrom has been progressively building his arm strength through bullpen sessions and live batting practice on the practice fields. This methodical progression has allowed the two-time Cy Young Award winner to stay in sync with the team's other starting pitcher candidates. The skipper anticipates deGrom will participate in approximately 3 to 4 games before the end of spring training. This schedule is designed to have him ready to pitch during the Rangers' opening series of the regular season in Philadelphia, which kicks off at the end of the month.
But here's where it gets interesting: Is this cautious approach the best way to prepare a pitcher for the rigors of a full season, or could it leave him slightly behind? Some might argue that deGrom, with his extensive experience, could handle a more accelerated ramp-up. Others will champion the Rangers' due diligence, emphasizing that preventing injury is paramount for a player of his caliber. What are your thoughts? Should the Rangers push deGrom a bit harder, or is patience the key to unlocking his full potential this season?
