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Jacob deGrom’s Early Exit Highlights Texas Rangers’ Rotation Challenges

8/14/2026, 8:46:41 AM

Core Event: deGrom Leaves Start with Triceps Fatigue

On August 13, 2026, Texas Rangers right-hander Jacob deGrom was pulled after two innings against the Los Angeles Angels because of right-triceps fatigue. The 38-year-old entered with an 8-7 record and a 3.87 ERA, allowing two runs on six hits, walking one and striking out three before being replaced by Peyton Gray. It was the first time deGrom surrendered five or more hits in an inning since a 2017 outing with the Mets.

Background & Context

DeGrom has been battling a left-hip and glute injury since the All-Star break, limiting his durability. Earlier in the week, fellow starter Nathan Eovaldi was placed on the 15-day injured list with right-posterior elbow inflammation, further straining the rotation. The Rangers entered the game at 60-61, 1.5 games behind the Houston Astros for the AL West lead and one win shy of a .500 record.

Data & Statistics

  • Season line through the start: 8-7, 3.87 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 144 strikeouts and 30 walks in 118 2/3 innings.
  • He needs two more strikeouts to join the exclusive group of nine active pitchers with 2,000 career strikeouts.
  • In three starts against the Angels this season, deGrom has yielded 10 earned runs in 10 innings.
  • The Rangers lost 5-2, dropping to 0-4 with runners in scoring position for the series.

Official Statements & Responses

Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young said the staff is closely monitoring deGrom’s workload, noting he has logged more innings than any prior season. Manager Skip Schumaker emphasized the need for “breathing room” for the pitching staff and said the team will evaluate deGrom’s health before confirming his next start against Washington. The organization highlighted rotation depth, with Kumar Rocker slated to start the following day and Jordan Montgomery available for relief or spot starts.

Verbatim Quote

  • “He was probably a little emotional, had a little extra gear,” — Corey Seager

Why It Matters / Impact

DeGrom’s premature exit underscores the Rangers’ vulnerability on the mound as they chase a postseason berth. With Eovaldi sidelined and deGrom’s hip and triceps issues persisting, the team must rely on less-experienced arms such as Rocker, Gore and Bradford to stay competitive during a critical stretch that includes series against the Athletics and a nine-day road swing.

What’s Next

The Rangers’ next start is against the Washington Nationals later in the week, but deGrom’s availability remains uncertain pending additional treatment. The club will continue to adjust the rotation on a day-by-day basis, aiming to preserve the health of its ace while maintaining a viable path to the AL West race.