Rangers seek momentum in playoff chase as deGrom returns to face Mets
The Texas Rangers find themselves at a pivotal moment in the season as they continue their three-game series against the New York Mets at Citi Field. This Saturday, the teams will face off at 3:10 p.m. Central Time, with the Rangers eager to capitalize on every opportunity in their pursuit of a playoff berth.
DeGrom’s Homecoming
This matchup carries an extra layer of excitement as Jacob deGrom makes his return to New York, stepping onto the mound as a visitor for the first time in his career. After nearly a decade with the Mets, deGrom’s presence is sure to evoke memories for fans and players alike. His storied tenure in Queens included multiple All-Star selections and a reputation as one of the league’s most dominant pitchers.
Pitching Matchup
Saturday’s game will showcase a compelling duel between veteran experience and youthful potential.
Rangers: Patrick Corbin
For the Rangers, left-hander Patrick Corbin takes the mound. Despite a rough outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks on September 1, where he allowed five earned runs over 5.2 innings, Corbin has shown resilience. His recent performance against the Houston Astros, where he pitched 5.2 innings and yielded only one earned run, underscores his ability to bounce back. Though his last seven starts reflect a less-than-ideal 1-2 record with a 6.34 ERA, Corbin’s consistency in taking the ball every fifth day has been invaluable for the Rangers’ rotation. Signed for a modest deal before the season, he has become a steady presence in the clubhouse.
Mets: Brandon Sproat
On the opposite side, the Mets will rely on rookie right-hander Brandon Sproat, who made his MLB debut just last week. Drafted in the second round of the 2023 draft, Sproat impressed in his debut against Cincinnati, where he pitched six innings, allowing three earned runs while striking out seven. Prior to his promotion, he posted an 8-6 record with a 4.24 ERA at Triple-A Syracuse, showcasing his potential as a future cornerstone of the Mets’ pitching staff.
Injury Updates
Injuries continue to plague the Rangers, but there are signs of optimism.
Adolis Garcia (OF): On the 10-day IL with a left quad strain, Garcia is set to face live pitching this weekend and could return next week.
Corey Seager (SS): Following an appendectomy, Seager is aiming to be back for the Rangers’ next home series against the Miami Marlins on September 19.
Marcus Semien (2B): On the 10-day IL with a left foot contusion, Semien is scheduled for a hitting session in Houston on Monday.
Sam Haggerty (OF): Also on the 10-day IL with left ankle inflammation, Haggerty has begun a rehab assignment.
Other notable injuries include Nathan Eovaldi, who is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season with a right rotator cuff strain, and Jon Gray, who has been moved to the 60-day IL, effectively ending his season.
As the Rangers and Mets gear up for this critical game, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With deGrom back in the spotlight and both teams vying for a crucial win, fans can expect an electric atmosphere at Citi Field.
