DiComo’s Proposal for deGrom’s Return
An SNY analyst has outlined a strategy for the New York Mets to persuade Jacob deGrom to leave the Texas Rangers and rejoin the organization. Anthony DiComo argued that the Mets should appeal to deGrom’s legacy rather than financial incentives, suggesting the team could offer him the opportunity to have his number retired at Citi Field.
DiComo stated that a return to New York would allow deGrom to bolster his borderline Hall of Fame resume. The analyst noted that while deGrom’s case is strong based on rate statistics, it has been complicated by the fact that he started his major league career at age 26 and underwent two Tommy John surgeries.
The proposal centers on the idea that deGrom could secure his place in baseball history through a return to the team where he established his early dominance. DiComo emphasized that the Hall of Fame is a viable destination for the pitcher if he chooses to play elsewhere, but a homecoming would provide specific honors unavailable with another club.
deGrom’s Current Status and Recent Performance
DeGrom remains under contract with the Texas Rangers. Prior to the trade deadline, the Rangers requested that deGrom be traded, but he declined the move. At the time, deGrom stated his belief that the Rangers could win the World Series.
The pitcher’s recent performance has drawn criticism from within the organization. DeGrom called the Rangers’ regular-season performance "embarrassing" amid trade rumors. In his last start on Sept. 25 at Target Field, deGrom lasted four innings and allowed eight earned runs in a 10-2 loss to the Minnesota Twins.
DeGrom admitted he was "embarrassed" by that outing, describing it as "terrible" because he did not make pitches when needed. Over his last two starts, he gave up 11 earned runs in 8 1/3 innings, issuing seven walks while striking out seven batters.
Rangers’ Roster Plans and deGrom’s Response
Texas Rangers head of baseball operations Chris Young indicated that the team’s roster needs to become younger and more athletic. Young stated that trades are part of the plan to achieve this shift in demographics and skill set.
Despite the Rangers' direction and his recent struggles, deGrom has not completely shut the door on a return to New York. He acknowledged that retiring No. 48 at Citi Field would be a "huge honor," though he noted that such a decision is not up to him.
DeGrom is owed $37 million in 2027 under his current contract with Texas. The combination of his financial obligation, the Rangers' desire for roster changes, and the Mets’ potential interest in leveraging legacy incentives creates a complex landscape for the pitcher’s future.