With the Toronto Blue Jays securing a spot in the World Series, veteran pitcher Max Scherzer expressed his emotions at the opportunity to compete in the Fall Classic once again. Scherzer is set to start for Toronto in Game 3 of the World Series in Los Angeles on Monday at 8 p.m. ET, marking his fourth appearance in the prestigious championship.
Following a split in the first two games in Toronto, where the Blue Jays claimed victory in Game 1 with a score of 11-4 and the defending champion Dodgers responded with a 5-1 win in Game 2, the stage is set for an intense matchup.
Schneider, the Blue Jays’ manager, confirmed Scherzer’s return to the pitching mound for the pivotal game, to which the 41-year-old pitcher responded with enthusiasm, stating, “This is what you play for, to be able to get to this spot, to get to this moment, to have a shot at it.” Scherzer expressed his deep appreciation for the opportunity to compete on such a grand stage, acknowledging the significance of playing in a World Series.
Scherzer boasts an impressive career spanning 18 MLB seasons with various teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, Los Angeles, New York Mets, Texas Rangers, and now Toronto. Throughout his career, he has accumulated a remarkable record of 221-117 and has garnered 3,489 strikeouts with a 3.22 earned-run average.
Having previously made World Series starts in 2012 with the Tigers, twice with the Nationals in 2019, and once with the Rangers in 2023, Scherzer’s experience and skill set make him a formidable presence on the field.
Recognized with three Cy Young Awards and being an eight-time all-star, Scherzer not only excels in his performance but also harbors a deep passion for the sport and its rich history. Emphasizing the unpredictable nature of baseball, he highlighted the importance of staying prepared and adaptable in the game.
Despite initially being left off Toronto’s roster for the American League Division Series, Scherzer’s impactful performance in the AL Championship Series led to his selection for Game 4, where he delivered a commendable performance, securing a crucial win for the team.
Looking ahead, Scherzer’s inclusion in Game 3 strategically positions him for potential availability in a Game 7 scenario, as explained by Schneider. The Blue Jays’ pitching lineup also includes Shane Bieber for Game 4 as they aim to maintain a competitive edge in the series.
Meanwhile, Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts announced Tyler Glasnow as the Game 3 starter and Shohei Ohtani for Game 4, setting the stage for an exciting clash between the two powerhouse teams. Reflecting on his experience managing Scherzer, Roberts praised his competitiveness and strategic prowess, emphasizing Scherzer’s unique approach to the game.
As the World Series unfolds, the matchup between the Blue Jays and Dodgers promises to deliver thrilling moments and intense competition on the baseball diamond.