Texas Rangers pitcher Jacob deGrom and Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. were recognized as Major League Baseball’s Comeback Players of the Year for the American League and National League, respectively. The awards, announced Thursday night, acknowledge players who have overcome adversity to return to a high level of performance during the 2025 season.
deGrom, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, made a notable return to the mound after undergoing Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for much of the 2023 and 2024 seasons. In 2025, he showcased the form that made him one of the league’s most dominant pitchers. While his workload was managed carefully by the Rangers’ medical and coaching staff, deGrom contributed significantly to the team with his performance when active, helping solidify Texas’s rotation.
Acuña, a former NL MVP, recovered from multiple injuries that had plagued him in recent seasons, including a torn ACL suffered in 2021. After intermittent availability and limited impact in the subsequent years, Acuña returned in 2025 with a strong campaign highlighted by consistency at the plate, speed on the bases, and improved defense. His all-around contributions were vital in keeping the Braves competitive in the National League.
The Comeback Player of the Year award is voted on by a panel of MLB.com reporters, who consider both the severity of a player’s previous injuries or setbacks and their return to form on the field. Both deGrom and Acuña were recognized not just for their statistical outputs, but also for the perseverance and determination required to return from significant physical challenges.
Additional MLB postseason awards were also announced during Thursday’s program, honoring standout performances across various categories such as Most Valuable Player, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year. The acknowledgment of deGrom and Acuña’s efforts serves as a reminder of the resilience and commitment required for professional athletes to overcome prolonged absences and reestablish themselves among the league’s top performers.
