MLB analyst breaks down Jacob deGrom's New York Mets departure

Jacob deGrom was virtually unstoppable about five years ago. The 6-foot-4 New York Mets right-hander owned the league's batters for years and became one of the team's most-well-known icons.

A winner of the Cy Young Award in 2018 and 2019, deGrom has also won the Rookie of the Year Award and has led the MLB in strikeouts twice.

However, like many pitchers, injuries have started to take a toll on DeGrom, who will turn 35 this summer. A stress fracture in his scapula sidelined Jacob deGrom until July last season. He ended up making a career-low 11 starts, but still struck out over 100 batters and amassed an ERA of 3.08.

"'It was never like, I’m outta here… You look at places you can see yourself playing. All I had known was New York, and part of me thought I’d be back.' #LGM ~ Jacob deGrom on his decision to sign with the Texas Rangers." - GENY Mets Report

Much to the surprise of many Mets fans, deGrom turned down a qualifying offer worth $19.65 million from the New York Mets. Weeks later, it was announced that deGrom had inked a five-year deal worth $185 million with the Texas Rangers.

Most onlookers are unsure of the exact reasons why deGrom departed the Mets, especially as their billionaire owner Steve Cohen seems content to offer record-breaking amounts for pitchers.

On his show recently, MLB analyst Jon Heyman shed some light on why he thinks deGrom left the Mets. Heyman addressed rumors that deGrom "seemed miserable" and "hated" living in New York, two theories that are widely entertained. Referencing deGrom, Heyman said:

"He did not hate New York. He did not hate the contract"

Heyman's prevailing theory is that deGrom is simply looking for a fresh start, and holds no ill will toward his former team or city. On the Texas Rangers, Jacob deGrom will join Martin Perez and former Boston Red Sox ace Nathan Eovaldi.

"New @nypostsports weekly video feature: Around the Bases. Topics for inaugural video include my new friendship with Jake deGrom, Trout’s big hope, Dodgers big issues and the reason I love the fantastic new rules (and which team will obviously lead the league in clock violations)" - Jon Heyman

The New York Rangers are one of Jacob deGrom's best choices for a fresh start

The New York Mets were sure to acquire some highly skilled arms in deGrom's place. However, Jacob deGrom is now in an environment on a team in an entirely new league, with entirely new teammates, and with a lot of potential to grow.