Why trading Jacob deGrom may be in the Rangers’ best interest

The offseason is rarely a time for ugly truths. Fans, front offices, and analysts typically use this time to be optimistic. Regardless of a player's statistical track record or injury history, they will choose to believe that a fresh spring could make anything possible.

As far as the Texas Rangers are concerned, it may be time to abandon an idealistic mindset and move on from starting pitcher Jacob deGrom. Even though the ace could be in for a solid 2025, the two parties may be trending in opposite directions. The ace's injury history does not lend itself to a long-term plan that will take time to develop.

The righty missed the vast majority of 2024, and has not been a stable force in Arlington. His most recent recovery from “Tommy John” surgery was a lengthy process that kept him from taking his spot atop the Rangers' rotation.

The fastball velocity and pitch mix that deGrom showed during the final weeks of last season offered reaons to be optimistic about the near future. But, it is highly unlikely that the 36-year-old makes it through an entire campaign without dealing with some kind of injury.

Why trading Jacob deGrom may be in the Rangers’ best interest

One can not possibly deny that deGrom is one of game's best pitchers when he is healthy. However, Texas is actively trying to stay below the luxury threshold while also remaining competitive.

Arms like Kumar Rocker and Jack Leiter are the club's future, and veterans such as deGrom and Max Scherzer may not fit into the long-term vision in play. The Rangers' front office has expressed interest in keeping Nathan Eovaldi and Andrew Heaney. But, both are younger than deGrom and have played a more pivotal role in the club's history.

At the moment, Texas could plausibly get a good return for deGrom. He is not far removed from his dominant days with the New York Mets, and gave just enough last year to warrant intrigue. He may not be the utterly unstoppable force he once was, but a contender may be willing to roll the dice on an aging talent.

Such a move may not be easy for fans to stomach, but it could help the Rangers plan for the future and reach a more financially flexible state.