Jacob deGrom Aims to Revitalize Rangers Season After Rough Opener
The Texas Rangers fell 5-3 to the Philadelphia Phillies on opening day at Citizens Bank Park. The offense struggled and struck out 10 times. Hits and walks were scarce.
Phillies starter dominates
Cristopher Sanchez was sharp for Philadelphia. He was last season’s National League Cy Young runner-up.
Sanchez finished the year with a 2.50 ERA and 212 strikeouts in 202 innings, per the article. On Thursday he recorded at least 10 strikeouts and no walks over six-plus innings. He became only the sixth pitcher to do that since 1900.
Manager’s choice and pitching matchup
Skip Schumaker chose Nathan Eovaldi as the Rangers’ Opening Day starter. He cited Eovaldi’s leadership and the standards he sets.
Schumaker also said he considered matchups when making the decision. The plan initially saved Jacob deGrom for the home opener.
Rotation depth
The Rangers now feature a formidable rotation on paper. Jacob deGrom and Eovaldi are viewed as the club’s top duo.
MacKenzie Gore and Jack Leiter add youth and depth. Kumar Rocker could join the group if he’s ready.
DeGrom status and the road ahead
Jacob deGrom was scheduled to pitch Saturday. He was later scratched from that first start, according to the update.
Rob Thomson planned to counter with Aaron Nola on Saturday. Nola struggled last season and posted a 6.01 ERA, per the article.
After a rough opener, fans hope Jacob deGrom can help revitalize the Rangers season. The pitching staff remains the team’s strength.
Philadelphia’s rotation ranked among the best last year. That makes every matchup important early in the schedule.
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