The Toronto Blue Jays secured a spot in the World Series, leading to seasoned pitcher Max Scherzer’s emotional response as he anticipates playing in the Fall Classic once again. Scheduled to start for the Blue Jays in Game 3 of the World Series in Los Angeles, Scherzer reflects on his fourth World Series appearance. After a split in the first two games in Toronto, with the Blue Jays winning Game 1 and the Dodgers claiming victory in Game 2, Scherzer expressed his excitement upon being confirmed by Blue Jays manager John Schneider as the starting pitcher for the upcoming crucial game.
With an extensive career spanning 18 seasons across various MLB teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, among others, the 41-year-old right-hander boasts an impressive 221-117 record with 3,489 strikeouts and a 3.22 earned-run average. 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’s accomplishments include three Cy Young Awards and being an eight-time all-star. He has also clinched two World Series titles with the Nationals and the Rangers.
Beyond his accolades, Scherzer is known for his deep appreciation of the game’s history and unpredictability. Emphasizing the ever-changing nature of baseball, Scherzer acknowledges the game’s ability to defy conventional analysis and stresses the importance of staying prepared for any outcome.
Initially excluded from Toronto’s roster for the American League Division Series, Scherzer’s impactful performance in the AL Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners led to his pivotal role in the ongoing World Series. Schneider commended Scherzer’s intensity and dedication, highlighting his meticulous approach to the game.
Looking ahead, Schneider disclosed that Shane Bieber would start for the Blue Jays in Game 4, elaborating on the strategic reasoning behind the pitching selections. By balancing Scherzer’s recent outing with the need for adequate rest and readiness for potential Game 7, Schneider aims to optimize the team’s pitching rotation for the upcoming games.
On the opposing side, Dodger manager Dave Roberts revealed the pitching lineup with Tyler Glasnow set to start Game 3 and Shohei Ohtani slated for Game 4. Reflecting on managing Scherzer during his tenure with Los Angeles, Roberts praised Scherzer’s competitive spirit, intelligence, and dedication to the game, underscoring his status as a future Hall of Famer.