Every fifth day we’re witnessing greatness in the form of Jacob deGrom.
deGrom is having an historic season and is deserving of all the accolades; this includes an obvious selection to this month’s All-Star Game in Colorado.
The best pitcher on the planet, however, will not be participating in the festivities.
deGrom has decided to skip the All-Star Game and, instead, spend the mid-season break with his family while preparing for the second half.
“I’ve thought about it and obviously being named to an All-Star team is a great honor,” deGrom told reporters Wednesday. “But I’m just going to take that time and just enjoy it with my family whether I pitch Sunday or not and get healthy for the second half.”
“It was kinda up in the air whether I’d go or not, and then thinking about it, I think it’s best for me and this team for me to not go and throw, and rest for the second half.”
Pardon me, as I make my way through the Mets’ fanbase. I need to join in on the loud applause for deGrom’s decision.
And, yes, I believe this was deGrom’s decision to make.
The higher-ups within the Mets’ organization may have nudged him to sit this one out. But that’s likely all they did, then exhaled with a fist pump afterwards.
Because the bottom line is this, deGrom is the franchise. I don’t think the late great Tom Seaver would mind the use of his nickname here when discussing this.
This season, deGrom’s All-Star credentials include a sparkling 1.08 ERA along with leading the majors in strikeouts with 146. And he’s done it despite throwing only 92 innings.
It’s that last bit of information which is why we’re even discussing this. It’s also why deGrom ultimately decided going home to rest up was in his and the Mets’ best interest.
deGrom’s only thrown 92 innings because he’s had to fend off a handful of ailments. The right-hander has dealt with right lat inflammation, tightness in his right side, right elbow tendinitis and right shoulder soreness.
That’s a lot for one half a season of baseball. It’s enough to justify the 33-year old’s decision to rest and start getting ready for the second half.
We’re, after all, talking about the best pitcher in the game. Moreover, the Mets, are in position to run away with their division. Yes, the Mets — the team that plays in New York.
For that to happen, deGrom’s availability every fifth day as their ace, is a must.
Throughout the first half of this season, deGrom has overwhelmed opponents with his fastball and slider. His ability to pitch has reach extraordinary levels in 2021.
His decision to skip this year’s All-Star Game, however, has been his best pitch yet.
Image: Mike Stobe/Getty Images
