Two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom, 36, expressed readiness to begin a rehab assignment next week, aiming to pitch for the Texas Rangers for the first time since June 2023. DeGrom, who threw approximately 45 pitches in three innings, mentioned feeling good, despite the extended time off due to his surgery in June 2023. The rehab assignment is expected to start with Double-A Frisco.

Manager Bruce Bochy confirmed that deGrom seems prepared to start the rehab process soon. In a similar development, fellow Rangers pitcher Jon Gray also faced hitters for three innings on Saturday and is eager to return to the starting rotation.

DeGrom signed a $185 million, five-year contract with Texas before the 2023 season but was sidelined after only 30 1/3 innings due to his surgery in June. He emphasized a need to work on getting full extension on his pitches during his recent outing.

DeGrom did not specify a target number of innings upon his return but emphasized the importance of getting some game time this season. Bochy echoed this sentiment, highlighting deGrom’s eagerness to compete despite the time missed.

Gray, who boasts a record of 5-4 with a 3.73 ERA, last pitched on July 23 and had to exit a game scheduled for July 28 due to a groin strain. Both deGrom and Gray are striving to contribute to the Rangers as they progress through their respective rehabilitation processes.