Jacob deGrom’s Resilience and Quest for the Cy Young Award
Jacob deGrom, the former two-time Cy Young Award winner, is on a remarkable quest to clinch the American League Cy Young with a record 25 starts for the Rangers. Despite his injury-ridden past seasons, deGrom, now 36, remains determined and optimistic about his future in the league.
A Tale of Resurgence: Overcoming Adversities
The journey of deGrom mirrors that of other veteran pitchers who have faced injury challenges in Major League Baseball. Similar to Chris Sale of the Atlanta Braves, deGrom underwent Tommy John surgery and endured a series of setbacks in recent years. Before the 2024 season, Sale had only made 31 starts in his last four seasons, while deGrom had a modest 35 starts leading into the 2025 season.
Sale’s triumphant return in 2024, where he secured the National League Cy Young and pitching Triple Crown, serves as an inspiring precedent for deGrom. Despite being on the cusp of 37, deGrom’s resilience and exceptional talent set him apart as he aims to redefine expectations for veteran pitchers in the league.
Unveiling deGrom’s Potential: A Glimpse into His Dominance
DeGrom’s pre-injury performances underscore his unwavering skill and prowess on the mound. Before his Tommy John surgery in June 2023, he showcased his dominance in six starts, boasting impressive statistics of a 2-0 record, 2.67 ERA, 45 strikeouts, and a remarkable 0.75 WHIP in 30.1 innings. His brief return last season further highlighted his enduring capabilities, conceding only two runs and striking out 14 batters in 10.2 innings.
These numbers testify to deGrom’s enduring excellence, reminiscent of his early career achievements that include winning the NL Rookie of the Year and two Cy Young Awards. The key now lies in maintaining his health and consistency, a challenge that deGrom acknowledges with a renewed sense of determination.
Setting the Stage for Success: Projections and Aspirations
FanGraphs Steamer projections paint a promising picture for deGrom’s potential impact in the upcoming season. Predicted to achieve a 5.1 WAR in 26 starts with a 2.86 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, and 206 strikeouts, deGrom is poised to be a standout performer, ranking among the top starters of the year.
These projections align deGrom with past Cy Young winners, emphasizing the significance of sustained performance and durability in securing this prestigious accolade. As deGrom aims to surpass the 25-start milestone and contribute significantly to the Rangers’ season, the possibility of claiming his third Cy Young Award looms on the horizon.
In conclusion, deGrom’s Herculean pursuit of the Cy Young Award symbolizes not only his individual triumph but also his resilience in the face of adversity. With a blend of talent, determination, and a renewed focus on health, deGrom stands poised to etch his name in baseball history once again, showcasing the enduring spirit of a true baseball icon.
