DeGrom scratched, Latz starting
Jacob Latz is starting in place of Jacob deGrom today
SURPRISE, ARIZONA - MARCH 10: Starting pitcher Jacob Degrom #48 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Chicago Cubs during the second inning of the spring training game at Surprise Stadium on March 10, 2026 in Surprise, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) | Getty Images Jacob deGrom, scheduled to start in this afternoon’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies, has been scratched due to neck stiffness, it has been announced. Jacob Latz will start in his place.
Whoever used a monkey paw wish on Latz being in the rotation needs to have their ass beat right now. deGrom, who turns 38 in June, has had injury issues in the past, but this would at first glance to be the sort of one-off thing that happens occasionally. The beats are saying that this is not thought to be anything serious, and he could potentially start at some point in the six game road trip the team is currently on.
The good news is that Jacob Latz was stretched out this spring as part of his competing for a spot in the starting rotation, and with only three relievers pitching on Thursday and an off day yesterday, the bullpen should be fully rested with everyone available.