Can Kyle Cody Make Rangers Opening Day Roster?
It's been a journey for Texas Rangers right-hander Kyle Cody. Drafted by the Rangers in 2016, Cody won the Rangers Minor League Pitcher of the Year award in 2017.
But in March 2018, an elbow strain for Cody prompted Tommy John surgery, ending his 2018 and 2019 seasons.
Add the shortened COVID-19 2020 season to the mix where Cody pitched in just eight Major League games. Then in 2021 his season ended due to shoulder inflammation, ultimately ending in surgery at the end of September. He would miss part of the 2022 season, too.
Cody has had some tough luck staying on the mound.
Now he is back with the Rangers in camp on a mission to make the club, but is also soaking in Spring Training.
"I feel really good," Cody told Inside The Rangers. "It's more of enjoyment to be back because of the situation I've been in. Arm feels good, body feels good [and] really excited to be back."
In past seasons, his camp was about either being shut down or recovering from injuries. Entering 2023, there was an unknown factor on what to expect physically.
"I really didn't know how to gauge how I was going to feel," Cody said. "I just wanted to take it head on and take it as I never had that year off."
While the rehab process took a toll on the righty physically, it also presented challenges mentally. The Rangers organization was there to support Cody, along with family and his wife Courtney.
"They were there with me every single day of it, and they knew what I was thinking and helped me get through it to the next step," Cody said.
Cody's first three outings in Spring Training were masterful. He faced the minimum each time, totaling two strikeouts. However, on Monday against the Rockies, Cody reached a rough patch. A hit-by-pitch and a walk created a mess that ended with a three-run home run. It was his first runs allowed this spring.
In the past, such as outing might have taken a toll on Cody.
"I felt like I got too ahead of myself and was trying to show myself too much, but this camp, I have taken a step in whatever happens," said. "I want to be healthy and be available and help the team out any way I can."
On Monday, Cody hit 92-93 mph on his fastball, which is a tad less than his average before Tommy John surgery. However, location is more of a concern for Rangers manager Bruce Bochy than velocity.
"They'll get stronger as the spring goes, but 92-93 works if you have command," Bochy said.
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