Jacob deGrom’s Successful Comeback
He returned, left no doubts and now has some hardware to show for it.
Texas Rangers right-handed pitcher Jacob deGrom was named the American League Comeback Player of the Year in the Players Choice awards, the MLBPA announced Wednesday morning. The 37-year-old was an All-Star last season and anchored baseball’s best rotation in his first full season back from elbow surgery.
Overcoming Injuries and Achieving Success
He yielded a 2.97 ERA (the sixth-lowest among qualified AL starters) in 172 2/3 innings (his most since the 2019 season) and recertified himself as one of baseball’s best arms after injuries wiped out the near-entirety of his first two seasons with the Rangers.
The two-time Cy Young award winner underwent elbow surgery after just six appearances two years ago, sat sidelined while the club won the World Series and returned to make three starts at the tail end of the 2024 season.
Awards and Recognition
He was among the team’s most durable players this season, avoided the injured list entirely, logged more innings than in his previous three seasons combined and made 30 starts while his workload and pitch count were carefully navigated to avoid significant wear and tear.
“I thought it was realistic,” deGrom said after his 30th start. “This game, it can be tough, and I missed a lot of time. It was a question of how many we could make. I set a goal for 30 and to run out there as many times as I could. I thought it was realistic and I’m happy that I was able to accomplish that goal.”
“Do I still have it?” After Jacob deGrom’s recovery from last year’s injury, we can confirm: He still has it.
Congratulations, Jacob, on being voted by the Players as the AL Comeback Player for this year’s Players Choice Awards!@Rangers | @CBSMornings pic.twitter.com/evGf6uaKTx
— MLBPA (@MLBPA) October 29, 2025
Contract and Career Highlights
The Rangers signed deGrom to a five-year, $185 million contract prior to the 2023 season.
He’s the third Rangers player to win this award in the past decade, joining outfielder Hunter Pence (2019) and first baseman Prince Fielder (2015). Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young won it in 2014 with the Seattle Mariners.
Find more Rangers coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
Conclusion
Jacob deGrom’s successful comeback is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. After overcoming injuries and setbacks, he has proven himself to be one of the best pitchers in the game, and his award is well-deserved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What award did Jacob deGrom win?
A: Jacob deGrom won the American League Comeback Player of the Year award.
Q: What was Jacob deGrom’s ERA in the 2025 season?
A: Jacob deGrom’s ERA in the 2025 season was 2.97.
Q: How many innings did Jacob deGrom pitch in the 2025 season?
A: Jacob deGrom pitched 172 2/3 innings in the 2025 season.
Q: What is the value of Jacob deGrom’s contract with the Rangers?
A: The value of Jacob deGrom’s contract with the Rangers is $185 million over five years.
