Ex-Met Jacob deGrom talks winning World Series during intro presser with Texas Rangers

Jacob deGrom made his Texas two-step from the Mets official on Thursday afternoon. The 34-year-old was introduced as a Ranger in a press conference at Globe Life Field as he begins his potential six-year stint in Arlington.

“Whenever I found out the Rangers were one of those teams [interested] I got really excited,” said deGrom wearing his new jersey and cap. “Hearing the vision of what the Rangers want to do and ultimately getting to meet [owner] Ray [Davis] and the vision here and bringing a World Series here. That’s the goal, winning a World Series.

“These guys all had that same vision and it lined up with what I wanted to do. They showed a ton of interest right from the start and the feelings were mutual and I’m just very happy to be here.”

The two-time Cy Young award winner bolted Queens after nine seasons of dominance — and injuries — and agreed to a five-year deal for $185 million with the Rangers before the start of MLB’s Winter Meetings in San Diego. The deal includes a conditional option for a sixth season.

DeGrom stated that the decision wasn’t easy and the Mets’ organization will always be very dear to him.

“That’s not an easy decision [leaving the Mets],” deGrom said. “I spent the first eight-plus years of my career with the New York Mets and I have to thank them for that. They’ll always hold a special place in my heart, my wife’s heart and my kids.

“From ownership to my teammates there and the fans ultimately, they made me feel welcome there. They played a big role in my career. There will always be a special place in my heart for the New York Mets and their fans. That’s [free agency] just part of the baseball and seeing what C.Y. [Rangers’ GM Chris Young], [Bruce] Boch[y] and Ray were building here, it was something I wanted to be a part of.”

After six straight losing seasons, the Rangers lured Bochy — a three-time World Series winner managing the Giants — out of retirement in October.

“I’m ecstatic. To win in our game, you need pitching,” Bochy said Thursday. “We couldn’t have a better guy to head up this rotation. We’ve added to the rotation. So don’t tell me we can’t win. ... We’re a much better club right now than just a few weeks ago.”

Now the struggling franchise brings in a big free agent in deGrom, but the signing puts in question the four-time All-Star’s ultimate goal. By spurning the 101-win Mets in favor of the 68-win Rangers doesn’t appear to put deGrom closer to the ultimate prize.

The Lakeland, Fla., native also divulged a bit on his free agency process. He stated that and his representatives were in contact with the Mets throughout his process but tipped his cap to the Rangers for their constant communication adding that Texas made him feel like they really wanted him here.

When deGrom is on the mound he is arguably the best pitcher of this generation. He posted a career 2.52 ERA in 209 starts over nine seasons with the Mets. However, his constant injury history likely made the Mets balk at offering a long-term deal. Without blinking, the Mets turned the page and replaced deGrom with Justin Verlander on a two-year deal.

DeGrom’s Rangers will visit Citi Field on Aug. 28 of this season.

- With News Wire Services