deGrom Shines in Return to Citi Field
Texas Rangers ace Jacob deGrom made a memorable homecoming Friday night, leading his team to an 8–3 win over the New York Mets.
The 37-year-old right-hander gave up just three earned runs across seven innings in his first game back at his old stomping grounds.
Emotional Night for the Former Mets Star
deGrom, who pitched for the Mets from 2016 to 2022, admitted the night carried extra meaning.
“It was really cool,” he told Bill Ladson of MLB. com.
“This is where it all started, so coming back here was very special. I’m thankful the Mets played that tribute video.
The fans were great to me when I was here. That was a really nice gesture.”
Mets Honor Their Former Ace
Before the game, the Mets played a tribute video celebrating deGrom’s decorated tenure in New York. During his time with the Mets, he captured two National League Cy Young Awards, earned Rookie of the Year honors, and anchored several playoff-contending teams—though a championship ultimately eluded him.
All-Star Form in Texas
Now in his first All-Star season with the Rangers, deGrom is showing he’s still an ace-caliber pitcher. Through 28 starts, he boasts a 2.82 ERA and has racked up 171 strikeouts, proving that his dominant form from his Mets days remains intact.
Rangers Eye Postseason Push
Texas, currently 78–70, sits firmly in both the American League West and Wild Card races. With a division crown or a Wild Card berth still within reach, what once looked like a lost season for the Rangers now has turned into a promising playoff chase.
Next Matchup
The Rangers and Mets will meet again Saturday afternoon, with first pitch scheduled for 4:10 p.m. ET.
