The Texas Rangers defeated the Seattle Mariners on Monday. Jacob deGrom started the game and pitched well. However, he was removed from the contest after just five innings of work. After the game, Rangers manager Skip Schumaker explained why the team decided to go to the bullpen in the sixth inning, via Kennedi Landry.
“Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said Jacob deGrom ‘felt a little something’ in his knee before the start today. They weren’t going to push him too hard and five innings + one run was enough,” Landry shared.
The fact that deGrom still made the start despite dealing with something in his knee is encouraging. He surely would not have pitched if the issue was serious. Still, it is something to monitor.
Landry also shared a quote from deGrom.
“My right knee just felt a little funny throwing,” deGrom said. “It kind of stayed the same throughout the game. We were contemplating the sixth. I said I can do it. We decided to just make sure it’s fine. It’s a little tender, but I think we’ll be okay.”
deGrom still managed to limit the Mariners to one run while striking out six. He also allowed only one hit. It was a strong performance to say the least. The Rangers will continue to closely monitor his knee concern, however.
Jacob deGrom’s Start to Season
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
deGrom, 37, has now surrendered four earned runs across 9 and two/thirds innings in his two starts en route to a 3.72 ERA. The veteran right-handed hurler has had the strikeout pitch working so far, as he has already struck out 13 hitters.
It has been an overall up and down start to the new season for the Rangers star pitcher. If he can stay healthy and avoid any serious injuries, deGrom should be able to have another strong campaign. When healthy, he is still among the best starting pitchers in the sport.
Rangers Defeat Mariners
The Rangers narrowly defeated the Mariners in the contest.
Back in the win column! #AllForTX pic.twitter.com/6vOSi3JCHB
— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) April 7, 2026
Texas’ bullpen followed deGrom with four scoreless innings. Pitching clearly led the way for the Rangers against their American League West rival. Offensively, Corey Seager and Josh Jung both had two hits, while Seager added an RBI and a run scored.
The Rangers and Mariners will go head-to-head once again in Arlington, TX on Tuesday night at 8:05 PM EST in Game 2 of their three-game series.
Related: Rangers Make Jacob deGrom Decision for Orioles Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 7, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
