ARLINGTON, Texas — Jacob deGrom took to the mound for the Texas Rangers on Thursday against the Houston Astros, marking a highly anticipated first encounter with their longtime rivals. The ace pitcher not only delivered a stellar performance, but also played a pivotal role in the Rangers’ 1-0 victory, their sixth consecutive win. This victory moved the Rangers ahead of the Astros in the American League West standings as they kicked off a critical four-game series.
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy couldn’t hide his enthusiasm after the game, praising deGrom’s performance. “What a game, just terrific to be a part of,” he said, steering the conversation toward deGrom’s impressive command and competitive spirit. “He is one of the best in the game, and he was locked in tonight.”
DeGrom’s statistics mirrored his dominance on the mound. Over eight innings, he silenced Astros batters, allowing just five hits, one walk, and striking out seven. Notably, this outing marked the first time since April 2021 that he pitched more than seven innings. His slider, which he had struggled to command earlier this season, was on full display, with deGrom throwing it 50 times out of 96 pitches, an uptick reminiscent of his earlier years.
Opposing pitcher Hunter Brown entered the game with impressive numbers, boasting a 1.48 ERA. However, deGrom set the tone early, throwing first-pitch strikes to eight of the nine Houston hitters in his initial round through the order. “I felt good locating my pitches tonight,” deGrom remarked post-game. “We definitely want to beat these guys; they are our rivals.”
The Rangers’ pitching staff is currently enjoying a remarkable run, holding the best ERA in the American League at 2.89. This stark contrast to recent seasons highlights the transformation of the team, which has often struggled against the Astros, a franchise that has dominated the division in recent years. DeGrom’s performance not only bolstered the Rangers’ current success but also removed any doubt about their pitching depth, with fellow starters Nathan Eovaldi and Tyler Mahle also posting impressive ERAs.
Offensively, Jacob deGrom received significant support from Jake Burger, who hit a crucial home run in the sixth inning. This marks another notable contribution from Burger, who has emerged as a key player during the Rangers’ winning streak. His performance has garnered attention, not just for his hitting, but also for his unique personal inspirations.
Defensively, the Rangers showcased remarkable prowess, highlighted by several standout plays from outfielder Adolis García. His diving catches and strong positioning were instrumental in maintaining the shutout, further illustrating the team’s overall defensive strength. García, who has consistently delivered against the Astros, playfully acknowledged his success against the division rivals.
As the series continues, the narrative surrounding the Rangers shifts. With their pitching, hitting, and defense all clicking, the team appears poised to challenge for the playoffs. DeGrom’s commanding presence on the mound, paired with the team’s offensive and defensive performances, signals a potential turning point in the season. Fans will be eagerly watching how the remainder of the series unfolds.