Full Breakdown
Jacob deGrom Skips Sunday Start as Rangers Grapple with Glute Strain
7/11/2026, 6:29:19 AM
Core Event
Texas Rangers right-hander Jacob deGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, will not pitch the scheduled Sunday game against the Houston Astros. The decision follows a mild left glute strain identified after deGrom’s five-inning outing versus the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday, July 9, 2026. Manager Skip Schumaker announced that the pitcher will sit out the final start before the All-Star break, which begins July 17, and that his availability “right away” after the break remains uncertain. Placement on the 15-day injured list is being considered.
Background & Context
DeGrom, 38, joined the Rangers in 2022 on a five-year, $185 million contract that runs through 2027 with a mutual option for 2028. His tenure in Texas has been marred by injuries, including Tommy John surgery in 2023 that limited him to six starts that season and a brief 2024 campaign. After a full 2025 season (30 starts, 172 2/3 innings), deGrom posted a 3.49 ERA over 18 starts in 2026 before the current setback. The Rangers sit at 47-46, holding a half-game lead in the AL West as the trade deadline approaches.
Data & Statistics
- 2026 (through July 9): 7-5 record, 3.49 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 122 strikeouts, 22 walks in 100.2 innings.
- Career (through 2026): 103-70 record, 2.63 ERA, 0.988 WHIP, 1,973 strikeouts in 1,640 1/3 innings.
- Contract: $185 million guaranteed, with a sixth-year option that could raise total value to $222 million.
Official Statements & Responses
Rangers manager Skip Schumaker emphasized a cautious approach, noting the team will “wait and see how he recovers” and that the All-Star break offers a natural recovery window. He acknowledged that any lingering issue with the hip, lower half, or arm would prompt a conversation about a possible IL stint. The organization has not confirmed a roster move, leaving rotation options open, including a potential bullpen game or calling up prospect José Corniell.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts have highlighted the timing of deGrom’s injury as problematic, given the approaching trade deadline and the Rangers’ thin rotation after right-hander Jack Leiter’s ankle injury. Some commentators argue that relying heavily on a 38-year-old with a history of surgeries poses a risk to the team’s postseason aspirations.
Why It Matters
DeGrom’s absence removes the Rangers’ most reliable starter from a pivotal series against a division rival. The decision will influence bullpen usage, potential roster adjustments, and the team’s ability to maintain its lead in the AL West. Moreover, the handling of deGrom’s health could set a precedent for managing veteran pitchers with extensive injury histories.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources describe the ailment as a “mild left glute strain,” a “glute/hip strain,” and simply a “glute strain.” While all agree on the location and mild nature, the precise medical classification remains unspecified, and no definitive timeline for a return has been provided.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We're just kind of wait and see how he recovers,” — Skip Schumaker, Rangers manager
- “I think the All-Star break is at the right time for him to recover.” — Skip Schumaker
- “Anything with a hip, or lower half, or arm, you’re definitely concerned. We had a conversation with him, and the way he’s feeling today is better, but you never know until a couple more days of rehab and how he feels,” — Skip Schumaker
- “I think I’ll be fine,” — Jacob deGrom, Rangers pitcher
