Jacob deGrom could start Thursday's series-final game against the Washington Nationals after recovering from right triceps fatigue [1].
The potential return of the ace is critical for the Texas Rangers as they manage the health of their starting rotation during the final stretch of the season.
DeGrom's availability follows a concerning outing on Aug. 6 against the Angels at Angel Stadium in Los Angeles. During that start, deGrom lasted only two innings [4] before exiting the game early. The team's medical staff reported that the pitcher suffered from right triceps fatigue and would undergo imaging to assess the damage [3].
Despite the early exit, the Rangers are moving toward a quick return. Manager Skip Schumaker said the pitcher has since completed a bullpen session and "checked out fine" [1]. The timeline for his return is aggressive, placing him back on the mound only seven days [5] after the injury occurred.
"We’re optimistic he’ll be ready for Thursday’s start," Schumaker said [2].
If cleared, deGrom will take the mound at Nationals Park. The Rangers' medical staff had initially flagged the triceps issue as a reason for imaging, but the subsequent bullpen performance suggests the fatigue did not result in a structural injury. The team has not officially confirmed the starting lineup for the game, but Schumaker's comments indicate deGrom is the primary option for the series finale.
The Rangers have struggled with pitcher durability throughout the season. A successful return for deGrom would provide the rotation with a high-strikeout arm capable of deep outings, provided the triceps fatigue does not recur under game-speed intensity.
“"He checked out fine," Skip Schumaker said.”
DeGrom's rapid turnaround suggests the Rangers view the triceps issue as acute fatigue rather than a chronic strain. Returning to the rotation within a week indicates a high level of confidence in his immediate physical readiness, though it risks a setback if the underlying cause of the fatigue was not fully addressed.
