The 2026 MLB season only just began a couple of days ago, but the injury bug spares nobody. The Texas Rangers have already been forced to scratch an ace pitcher ahead of Saturday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Star right-hander Jacob deGrom has been scratched from his scheduled start due to neck stiffness. The issue does not appear to be serious based on early reporting, but this is still quite the letdown as the fireballer was expected to open his 2026 campaign.
Left-handed pitcher Jacob Latz will start in his place on Saturday.
The 37-year-old multi-time Cy Young winner put forth an excellent season in 2025. deGrom had seen both of the prior campaigns shortened significantly due to injury but came out healthy and dominant. He pitched 172.2 innings, recording a 2.97 ERA and 0.92 WHIP with 185 strikeouts. With an advanced metrics page that pops with upper-percentile grades in most categories, it’s easy to see why the Rangers will look to err on the side of caution and keep their ace healthy with the new year only just beginning.
Texas dropped its opening game to Philadelphia 5-3 on Thursday.
Stay tuned to DK Network for more updates as they become available.
