The Toronto Blue Jays secured a spot in the World Series, prompting veteran pitcher Max Scherzer to express his gratitude for the opportunity to compete in the Fall Classic once again. Scherzer is set to lead the Jays as the starting pitcher in Game 3 of the World Series in Los Angeles at 8 p.m. ET. The series is currently tied at one win each, with the Blue Jays taking Game 1 with a score of 11-4 and the defending champions, the Dodgers, responding with a 5-1 victory in Game 2.
At 41 years old, Scherzer reflected on the significance of playing in the World Series and expressed his excitement when Blue Jays manager John Schneider confirmed his role in the upcoming game. Scherzer, with a remarkable 221-117 record over 18 MLB seasons with various teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, Texas Rangers, and Toronto Blue Jays, has a career earned-run average of 3.22 and 3,489 strikeouts.
Having previously started in the World Series in 2012 with the Tigers, twice with the Nationals in 2019, and once with the Rangers in 2023, Scherzer is a three-time Cy Young Award winner and an eight-time all-star. Despite his accolades, Scherzer remains a devoted fan of baseball and its rich history, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the game and the need for constant readiness and adaptability.
Initially left off Toronto’s roster for the American League Division Series, Scherzer made a significant impact by pitching in Game 4 of the AL Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners. Schneider commended Scherzer’s intensity and professionalism, highlighting his experience and strategic mindset, which earned him the nickname “Mad Max” for his passionate demeanor both on and off the field.
Looking ahead, Schneider announced Shane Bieber as the Blue Jays’ starter for Game 4, explaining the rationale behind his pitching choices and emphasizing the importance of keeping Scherzer available for a potential Game 7. On the Dodgers’ side, manager Dave Roberts revealed that Tyler Glasnow would take the mound in Game 3, with superstar Shohei Ohtani set to start Game 4. Roberts, who previously managed Scherzer during his time with the Dodgers, praised Scherzer’s competitive spirit, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to the game of baseball.
