Jacob deGrom Returns After Hip Soreness Cuts Start Short

Jacob deGrom announced he’s cleared to pitch again after hip soreness forced him out early on July 7, 2026, ending his start after just two innings. The Rangers’ ace left the game with a lingering ache but confirmed he feels fine and ready for his next outing.

On July 7, 2026, deGrom took the mound for Texas against the Houston Astros. He logged two innings, allowing one run on three hits before a sharp hip twinge prompted the Rangers to pull him. Post‑game, deGrom told reporters the discomfort was “just a sore spot” and that he’d already begun a light rehab routine. He emphasized he’s “good to go” for the upcoming schedule, aiming to return to his usual 100‑plus pitch workload.

DeGrom’s health has been a season‑long storyline. After missing the first half with a lingering elbow issue, the hip soreness raised fresh concerns about his durability. The pitcher’s ability to stay on the mound directly impacts Texas’ rotation depth, especially as the team chases a wild‑card berth. A fully cleared deGrom means the Rangers can rely on a sub‑2.00 ERA arm, a rarity in the modern game.

Texas manager Chris Woodward said the staff will monitor deGrom’s pitch count closely, capping him at 85 pitches for the next start. The plan includes a bullpen session on July 9 to gauge his range of motion, followed by a possible spot start on July 12. Woodward added that the club’s medical team is using a combination of physiotherapy and targeted strength work to keep the hip stable.

The next scheduled start for deGrom is July 12, 2026, against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. If he remains symptom‑free, the Rangers expect him to deliver a quality start, giving the bullpen a breather in a tight stretch of games. Fans will be watching closely; a healthy deGrom could be the difference between a playoff push and a mid‑season slump.

The Rangers sit third in the AL West, three games behind the Houston Astros. DeGrom’s swift return could tighten that gap, especially as the Astros’ rotation shows signs of fatigue. A strong outing on July 12 could swing momentum, forcing the division leader to respond.

DeGrom, 33, reflected on his recovery, noting, “I’ve been diligent with the rehab, and my hip feels solid. I’m eager to get back to the rhythm of a full game.” His confidence underscores a veteran’s mindset: stay ready, stay focused, and let the work speak for itself.