Jacob deGrom was initially scheduled to start the Texas Rangers‘ game on Saturday against the Philadelphia Phillies. deGrom was ultimately scratched due to neck stiffness, however. The Rangers still earned a 5-4 victory, but plenty of attention was on deGrom’s injury concern. On Sunday, the star pitcher shared an encouraging update, via Kennedi Landry.
“Jacob deGrom said his neck feels ‘much better’ today. He played catch from 120 feet, which he couldn’t do yesterday. He still feels it a bit, but he’s hopeful about being able to start in Baltimore this week,” Landry reported.
deGrom has dealt with injury trouble over the years. He was able to make 30 starts in 2025 for the first time since 2019, though. Still, the Rangers are understandably going to proceed with extreme caution when it comes to the 37-year-old’s health.
On Saturday, reports suggested deGrom’s injury concern was not too serious. His update on Sunday confirms the reports. Barring any setbacks, he could realistically make his next scheduled start.
Rangers’ Jacob deGrom Hoping to Avoid Injury Absence
Texas Rangers starting pitcher Jacob deGrom (48)© Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
(© Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images)
deGrom joined the Rangers in 2023. After battling injury concerns early in his time with Texas, he finally pitched in a full season with the ball club in 2025. The results were impressive, as the 2018 and 2019 Cy Young winner earned his fifth All-Star selection in 2025. He ended up recording a 2.97 ERA and 185 strikeouts en route to placing eighth in American League Cy Young voting.
deGrom has yet to display signs of decline. The only concern with the right-hander is his injury. When he is on the mound, the team has complete confidence in his ability.
The good news is that deGrom’s neck stiffness does not seem to be a problem for the most part. He did not start on Saturday, but as mentioned, the team is being cautious. It seems as if there is no reason for serious concern.
Still, the Rangers will keep a close eye on deGrom’s status ahead of his next start. For now, the Rangers — who have split their season-opening series with the Phillies in Philadelphia heading into Sunday — will look to earn a win and a series victory. First pitch for Sunday afternoon’s contest is scheduled for 1:35 PM EST.
Meanwhile, updates will continue to be monitored and provided on Jacob deGrom’s injury status as they are made available.
Related: Rangers Announce Jacob deGrom News After Scratch Against Phillies
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.