Full Breakdown
Jacob deGrom’s Potential Thursday Start Amid Rangers’ Injury Concerns
8/19/2026, 11:17:42 AM
Core Event
Texas Rangers right-hander Jacob deGrom participated in a bullpen session on Tuesday and emerged as a candidate to start the Thursday matchup against the Washington Nationals. The opportunity follows his early exit after two innings against the Los Angeles Angels on the previous Thursday, when he left due to right-triceps fatigue.
Background & Context
DeGrom’s recent workload has been hampered by multiple injuries. Since the All-Star break he has dealt with a left hip and glute issue, and the triceps fatigue forced his premature departure from the Angels game. The Rangers are also navigating injuries to third baseman Josh Jung, who has been sidelined with a strained left calf for more than a week, and catcher Danny Jansen, who has missed two months with a strained right forearm. The team’s off-day on Monday provides additional rest for the rotation and an opportunity to evaluate the status of these veterans.
Data & Statistics
- Across 120 2/3 innings (23 starts) this season, deGrom holds an 8-8 record with a 3.95 ERA, a 1.17 WHIP, and 147 strikeouts.
- His strikeout rate stands at 29.5 % while his walk rate is 6.2 %.
- DeGrom is two strikeouts shy of reaching 2,000 career strikeouts, a milestone that would make him the second-fastest pitcher in both starts and innings to achieve the mark.
- Josh Jung’s rehab has not yet included live batting practice; a defensive progression is anticipated before a full return.
- Danny Jansen appeared in five Triple-A games, batting .333 with one RBI and handling catching duties without apparent issues.
Official Statements & Responses
Schumaker also noted that deGrom will not start the Wednesday game but remains a candidate for Thursday. Regarding Jung, Schumaker said the third baseman “ran on Sunday,” indicating progress in his calf rehab.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The exact day deGrom will pitch remains uncertain. While Schumaker mentioned a Thursday start, he also acknowledged that a Wednesday start is possible if the pitcher is ready, reflecting differing timelines in the reports. Additionally, the Rangers have not placed deGrom on the injured list three days after the injury was first reported, leaving his roster status ambiguous.
What’s Next
- The Rangers are expected to field a starter on Thursday against the Nationals, with deGrom as the leading candidate if his triceps condition permits.
- If deGrom does not start, the rotation may be adjusted to provide an extra day of rest for other starters.
- The team may activate Danny Jansen before the Tuesday game with Washington, potentially designating Austin Wynns for assignment to clear a roster spot.
- Josh Jung’s rehabilitation will likely include a live batting-practice session later in the homestand, aiming for a return by month’s end.
These developments will shape the Rangers’ pursuit of the final Wild Card spot and their contention for the American League West lead as the season enters its final stretch.
