UPDATE: In a thrilling return to Citi Field, Jacob deGrom took the mound for the first time against the New York Mets since leaving the team in December 2022. The Texas Rangers’ ace was welcomed with cheers and a remarkable six-run lead before he even threw a pitch, marking an emotional night for both player and fans on September 15, 2023.
Fans erupted in applause as deGrom warmed up to a video montage set to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Simple Man,” a nod to his legacy with the Mets. Despite a muted initial reaction when he took the mound—due to the Rangers knocking out rookie Josh Tong after just two outs in the first inning—deGrom quickly regained control. He ended the night with a strong performance, allowing only three runs and four hits over seven innings, bringing his season ERA to 2.82.
The Rangers ultimately triumphed with an 8-3 victory, a significant moment for deGrom, now 12-7 this season and an All-Star for the fifth time. His fastball averaged 98 mph, showcasing the electric stuff that once made him a two-time Cy Young Award winner.
DeGrom’s return was not just about the numbers; it was a poignant moment in his career. “He’s excited to be back. He’s got great memories here,” said Rangers manager Bruce Bochy before the game, echoing the sentiment felt by many fans. The Mets echoed this appreciation, with manager Carlos Mendoza stating, “He represented a lot and meant a lot to this organization.”
As deGrom entered the game, he held a 2.12 career ERA at Citi Field—second only to Sandy Koufax’s record at Dodger Stadium—solidifying his status as a cherished figure in New York baseball history.
The night took a nostalgic turn as fans remembered deGrom’s storied past with the Mets, where he became the franchise leader in ERA, WHIP, and strikeouts per nine innings. However, injuries plagued him in the past two seasons, limiting his appearances and prompting his decision to opt out of a $30.5 million contract with the Mets to sign a $185 million deal with the Rangers.
Looking ahead, deGrom’s resurgence is a promising sign for the Rangers as they aim for postseason success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can maintain this level of performance in the final stretch of the season.
As the night concluded, deGrom’s return to the mound was not just a game; it was a celebration of resilience and a testament to his impact on the sport. His journey continues, and fans are eager to see what comes next.