What's Happening?
Jacob deGrom, former ace of the New York Mets, is set to return to Citi Field as a member of the Texas Rangers. This marks his first appearance at the stadium since October 2022, when he played a pivotal role in extending the Mets' season during the National League wild-card series. DeGrom, now with the Rangers, has had a successful season, boasting an 11-7 record and a 2.78 ERA. He will be pitching against Jonah Tong, a rookie right-hander for the Mets. The Rangers are coming off a sweep against the Milwaukee Brewers, while the Mets are struggling, having lost six consecutive games and seeing their lead for the final NL wild-card spot diminish.
Why It's Important?
DeGrom's return to Citi Field is significant for both the Rangers and the Mets. For the Rangers, deGrom's performance is crucial as they are in a tight race for the AL West lead and the last wild-card spot. His resurgence this season has been a key factor in the Rangers' recent success. For the Mets, facing their former star pitcher comes at a critical time as they attempt to halt their downward spiral and secure a playoff spot. The game is expected to have a playoff atmosphere, highlighting the importance of each win for both teams.
What's Next?
The Rangers and Mets will continue their three-game series, with each game carrying significant implications for the playoff race. The Mets need to improve their performance to maintain their wild-card position, while the Rangers aim to capitalize on their momentum and close the gap in the AL West standings. The outcome of this series could influence the playoff picture for both leagues.
