Mon May 26 20:50:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Jacob deGrom, meticulous about his mechanics, is pitching with a lower arm angle in 2025 following his return from Tommy John surgery. Statcast data confirms his arm angle is significantly lower than in previous seasons (around 30 degrees, compared to 35-36 in 2020-2021). DeGrom adjusted naturally and consciously to improve recovery. The change affects his fastball and slider, giving them more horizontal movement, requiring further adjustments to maintain command. Despite the altered arm slot, deGrom is finding success, reminiscent of his earlier dominant form, with impressive performances in recent starts.
**News Article:**
**DeGrom’s New Angle: How Post-Surgery Adjustment is Fueling Ace’s Resurgence**
*Yankee Stadium, NY* – Texas Rangers ace Jacob deGrom is back to dominating hitters, but with a twist. The famously meticulous pitcher is sporting a noticeably lower arm angle in 2025, a change prompted by his return from Tommy John surgery.
According to Statcast data, deGrom’s arm angle this season averages around 30 degrees, a significant drop from the 35-36 degrees he maintained in 2020 and 2021. DeGrom himself acknowledges the adjustment, stating that the lower slot felt more comfortable and aided in recovery. “I was just trying to do what’s best for health,” deGrom said. “And now I feel like with the slot that I’m at right now, I’ve been able to recover really well in between.”
The shift has had a measurable impact on his pitches, particularly his fastball and slider, imparting more horizontal movement. While this requires careful management to maintain his signature command, the results speak for themselves. In his last three starts, deGrom recorded his first 10-strikeout game of the season, shut out the Houston Astros for eight innings, and dominated the Yankees lineup.
DeGrom’s journey back from injury has been marked by constant adjustments. He experimented with a slightly higher arm angle late last season and is still fine tuning it as needed. “It’s constantly adjusting and just seeing what works best,” deGrom explained.
While the change is subtle, it’s clear that deGrom’s new angle is a key part of his resurgence. Baseball fans can expect to see him continue to adapt and refine his delivery as the season progresses.