Is Jacob deGrom Back for Good? Neck Stiffness Raises Concerns Despite Gritty Outing

The Texas Rangers secured an 8-5 victory over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday, but all eyes were on the health and performance of Jacob deGrom. After being scratched from his scheduled season debut last Saturday due to persistent neck stiffness, the two-time Cy Young winner finally took the mound. While deGrom looked electric at times, striking out seven batters in 4.2 innings, he was chased from the game after allowing three runs and failing to complete the fifth. The outing has left fans and analysts questioning whether the 37-year-old ace can maintain his health through a full 2026 campaign.

DeGrom’s velocity remained a bright spot, as he repeatedly hit 97 mph, but his efficiency wavered in the middle innings. He surrendered a solo home run to former teammate Pete Alonso in the fourth and a pivotal two-run double to Gunnar Henderson in the fifth. Despite the three runs allowed, the Rangers’ coaching staff expressed relief that deGrom was able to compete without a recurrence of the severe neck discomfort that had plagued him over the weekend. Manager Skip Schumaker noted that the scratch was an "abundance of caution" and that deGrom's recovery remains the priority.

The Rangers’ bullpen and offense ensured that deGrom’s abbreviated start wouldn't result in a loss. Danny Jansen sparked the lineup with an offensive explosion, going 3-for-4 including a critical three-run homer in the seventh inning that gave Texas the lead for good. Ezequiel Duran and Corey Seager also contributed solo shots, continuing a power surge that has seen the Rangers win four consecutive games. The victory moved Texas to a 4-1 record, their best start in over a decade.

Rumors regarding deGrom’s long-term durability continue to circulate, especially given his history of Tommy John surgery and various mechanical setbacks. However, the Rangers' depth has allowed them to weather these minor injury scares. Pitcher Jacob Latz, who filled in for deGrom during his scratch, remains a viable long-relief option, though the team clearly prefers their ace at the front of the rotation. The Rangers’ staff is currently being monitored day-to-day, with a focus on ensuring deGrom is ready for his next scheduled turn.

For deGrom, the 2026 season is a quest for redemption after years of injury-shortened seasons. While his 2.97 ERA last season earned him AL Comeback Player of the Year honors, the neck stiffness serves as a reminder of the fragility of his elite arm. As the Rangers head toward their next series, the focus will remain on deGrom's recovery sessions and whether he can string together several starts without a visit to the training table. For now, the Rangers' high-powered offense is providing the necessary cover for their recovering ace.