The Texas Rangers, the reigning World Series champions, may receive a significant boost in their pitching rotation as two multiple-Cy Young Award winners could make a comeback in the middle of the summer. Max Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young winner, is making progress after undergoing surgery for a herniated disk in his lower back, while Jacob deGrom, a two-time winner, plans to resume throwing following elbow surgery that shortened his debut season with the Rangers. This article will delve into the potential impact of their return and how it could benefit the team.
The return of Scherzer and deGrom to the Rangers’ rotation could feel like acquiring two new players for the team. Both pitchers have proven track records and are capable of making significant contributions on the mound. Scherzer, who joined the Rangers as a trade-deadline acquisition last summer, exhibited his dominance with a 4-2 record and a 3.20 ERA in eight starts before missing the playoffs due to a strained muscle in his shoulder. Meanwhile, deGrom showcased his talent during the limited time he played, going 2-0 with a 2.67 ERA and 45 strikeouts in just six starts. His presence was crucial for the team’s success, as they needed to win at least three of those games to secure a playoff spot.
Max Scherzer’s recovery journey began with an MRI that revealed a little inflammation in his back. However, he started feeling better before experiencing nerve pain in his leg, which led to further medical interventions, including epidural injections. Eventually, a herniated disk was identified as the root cause of his discomfort, resulting in surgery on December 15. Despite the setback, Scherzer maintains a positive outlook, focusing on the team’s World Series victory and approaching his recovery with a half-full mentality.
Following his surgery, Scherzer successfully completed the crucial six-week post-surgery period without any complications. Now, the right-hander is focused on the gradual process of building up his strength while simultaneously ensuring that he keeps his arm primed. Given the nature of his injury, Scherzer must navigate activities such as bending, lifting, and twisting with caution. Nevertheless, his impressive stat of 3,367 strikeouts, the most among active pitchers, showcases his remarkable skill and value to the team.
Jacob deGrom, another key pitcher for the Rangers, had his debut season cut short due to elbow surgery. However, the 35-year-old is feeling optimistic about his recovery progress. DeGrom has already started a plyometric training program to prepare his arm for the upcoming season. He acknowledges the importance of patience and smart decision-making to ensure his long-term pitching career with the team.
The potential return of Max Scherzer and Jacob deGrom to the Texas Rangers’ rotation would undoubtedly strengthen the team’s pitching staff. Both pitchers have proven themselves as Cy Young winners, and their contributions could have a significant impact, especially during the critical mid-season period. Scherzer’s recovery from a herniated disk and deGrom’s rehabilitation following elbow surgery offer hope for the Rangers’ success. With their return, the team can look forward to reinforcing their pitching prowess and potentially defending their World Series title.
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