Bochy’s tardiness ARLINGTON — Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy experienced a slight delay before his scheduled pre-game media session, as he was busy finalizing the starting rotation for the final three weeks of the season with general manager Chris Young. Bochy’s tardiness was due to the ongoing discussions about the pitching lineup, which is set to feature Jacob deGrom and Max Scherzer, provided there are no unexpected setbacks following their recent rehab performances.
Bochy expressed confidence in the flexibility of the rotation, emphasizing the ongoing discussions to determine how best to align the pitchers for the remainder of the season. “We do have some flexibility there,” Bochy noted. “That’s what we’re talking about right now. How does this work out? We’re mapping out the rest of the season.
As it stands, Nathan Eovaldi and Cody Bradford are confirmed to be the next starters in the Rangers’ rotation. Beyond that, the remaining spots are still subject to change and will be determined based on the upcoming performances and any potential adjustments needed.
On Saturday, deGrom had a successful outing during his rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco. He pitched four innings, allowing no runs and only one hit. He recorded five strikeouts and did not issue any walks, throwing 49 pitches in total. Following his rehab stint, deGrom participated in a post-rehabilitation workout at Globe Life Field and reported feeling positive about his progress. “I’m excited,” deGrom said. “It’s been a long road to get back here.”
DeGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, has faced a challenging recovery process. He missed a significant portion of the 2023 season and all of the current season while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery. Discussions are ongoing between deGrom and the Rangers regarding his return to the rotation. Based on a standard Major League Baseball rest schedule, deGrom could be ready to pitch as early as Thursday in Seattle.
Coincidentally, Scherzer is also scheduled to be ready to pitch on Thursday. Scherzer had yet to return from Las Vegas, where he completed a successful rehab appearance for Triple-A Round Rock on Saturday. During that game, Scherzer threw four no-hit innings, striking out eight batters, walking one, and throwing 53 pitches. Although the initial plan was for Scherzer to pitch only two innings, the 40-year-old right-hander felt in good form and extended his outing.
Scherzer began the season on the injured list following offseason surgery for a herniated disc. An ongoing nerve issue in his arm has caused setbacks, including a stint on the injured list in August. However, Scherzer has recently made adjustments to his pitching mechanics to address the nerve pain and is now showing promising signs of recovery.
With both deGrom and Scherzer on track to return to the rotation, the Rangers are on the verge of having both of their elite Cy Young winners available simultaneously. This development is eagerly anticipated as the team looks to strengthen its pitching staff for the critical stretch run of the season.