Kumar Rocker is set to make his much-anticipated MLB debut when he takes the mound for the Texas Rangers’ series opener against the Seattle Mariners on Thursday at 8:40 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Park.
The 24-year-old Rocker has been a standout performer in the minor leagues this summer, showcasing his skills after recovering from Tommy John surgery in May 2023. In 10 appearances, including nine starts across three different Rangers affiliates, he holds a 1.96 ERA, although he is still searching for his first win with a 0-1 record.
Rocker, who was selected as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft out of Vanderbilt, will join forces with his former Commodores teammate Jack Leiter in the Rangers’ pitching rotation. Leiter, who was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, has been a significant part of the team’s future plans alongside Rocker.
In 2024, Rocker has posted impressive statistics with a 0.791 WHIP and a .181/.209/.278/.487 slash line against opponents. He has racked up 55 strikeouts and only five walks, averaging 13.5 strikeouts per nine innings. His rapid ascent through the minor leagues has earned him a spot as the No. 30 prospect according to Baseball America.
Rocker’s journey back to competitive play began on July 5 with the Arizona Rookie League Rangers after his recovery from elbow surgery. Rangers manager Bruce Bochy noted that Rocker has evolved significantly since his initial spring training appearance in 2023. Rocker had experienced elbow issues just six starts into his season with High-A Hickory at the end of April 2023, coinciding with a similar injury to Rangers ace Jacob deGrom. DeGrom underwent Tommy John surgery in early June 2023.
DeGrom is also expected to make his return to the MLB mound this weekend in Seattle. Additionally, Max Scherzer, who has been dealing with arm fatigue, is anticipated to make his comeback against the Mariners as well. Both deGrom and Scherzer successfully completed rehab starts in the minors last Saturday, adding to the excitement surrounding their return.
Rocker’s surgery, performed by Rangers Team Physician Dr. Keith Meister on May 22, 2023, involved ligament replacement and was a crucial step in his recovery process. As Rocker prepares for his debut, the Rangers are optimistic about his potential to make a significant impact and contribute to their pitching staff.