Scherzer Fires Up Against the Blue Jays: Key Victory Against Mariners and Series Tie

Although the performance wasn’t the best, Max Scherzer, the renowned 41-year-old pitcher, proved his worth on the mound, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a crucial victory against the Seattle Mariners in the American League Championship Series.

Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young winner and future Hall of Famer, displayed his characteristic intensity, despite recent difficulties in his performance. In his first postseason start after a complicated season finale, Scherzer allowed two runs and three hits in 5⅔ innings, securing the 8-2 victory and tying the series at two games apiece.

The Fury of “Mad Max”

The fifth inning was a clear example of Scherzer’s intensity. After a hard hit to the outfield with two outs and a runner on base, manager John Schneider approached the mound.

I’m fine! Let’s go!

Max Scherzer

Schneider, after a brief conversation, returned to the dugout. Scherzer, feeling in great shape, wanted to stay in the game. Scherzer struck out Randy Arozarena with a 79 mph curveball to end the inning. Although his velocity wasn’t the same as before, his knowledge and experience were fundamental. The pitcher recorded four strikeouts with his curveball, tying his personal record. This pitch, developed throughout his career, proved key in the game. Despite initial doubts, Scherzer managed to control the game, showing the experience that has made him a baseball icon. In the first inning, Scherzer walked Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez, which created tension. However, he managed to get out of the situation, inducing a crucial double play. Scherzer, aware of the importance of the moment, achieved victory, becoming the fourth pitcher aged 41 or older to win a playoff game. The support of Toronto’s offense was key, including a two-run homer by Andres Gimenez, marking the second consecutive game with an early home run. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. also contributed with a home run. Scherzer, with World Series rings with the Washington Nationals and the Texas Rangers, debuted in the postseason in 2011. The excitement of winning remains the same, regardless of the generation of players.