Despite missing the cut at last week’s 3M Open, Stephan Jaeger picked up eight spots in the playoff standings and became the new bubble boy for making the postseason.
The PGA Tour announced on Tuesday a new playoff eligibility list, which removed players who were suspended for competing in LIV Golf events. Eight players – those who had not relinquished their Tour membership – were tossed and Jaeger moved from 133rd to 125th on the new list.
Full-field scores from Rocket Mortgage Classic
The 33-year-old is doing his part this week at the Rocket Mortgage Classic to continue that positive trend, on his own merit.
Jaeger shot 5-under 67 on Thursday at Detroit Golf Club. He’s three off the early lead, held by last week’s winner, Tony Finau.
“I missed the cut in Minneapolis last week and went home and just kind of went through some old stuff and tried to figure out what was going on. Felt a lot more comfortable today, which is great. Just overall solid round,” said Jaeger, who had six birdies and one bogey.
This is Jaeger’s third full season on Tour. Twice before, he finished outside the top 150 in the FEC standings. With just two events remaining in the regular season – this one and the upcoming Wyndham Championship – Jaeger isn’t letting the pressure of keeping his card get to him.
“It doesn’t change my life, in a sense. I’ve got a great support team at home and my wife’s always there. Yeah, I want to. Do I need to? No, I’ll be fine either way,” Jaeger said. “I try to keep as much perspective in that sense as I possibly can. It’s not the end of the world and I know I’ll be back. Yeah, it’s a great start, so kind of pedal down to the floor this week and try to make something happen.
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