UPDATE: Max Scherzer has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 3 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, set for Monday night in Southern California. This matchup comes after the teams are tied at one game apiece in the best-of-seven series.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider revealed the news just moments after celebrating a dramatic Game 7 victory in the American League Championship Series. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, approached Schneider with a direct question: “When am I starting in the World Series?”
“I was like, ‘Max, I’m enjoying a beer, man,’” Schneider quipped, showcasing Scherzer’s intense focus and commitment to his craft.
Game 3 is pivotal, as the World Series shifts to Los Angeles, where Scherzer will face off against Dodgers right-hander Tyler Glasnow. In an exciting twist, two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is set to start for the Dodgers in Game 4, squaring off against Blue Jays right-hander Shane Bieber.
The stakes are high for Scherzer, who expressed his excitement about making his fifth World Series start. “This is what you play for, to be able to get to this spot,” Scherzer said. “So many great players have never gotten to a World Series. I’m just so fortunate to have another crack at this.”
At 41 years old, Scherzer’s experience and tenacity shine through. He made his postseason debut for Toronto after being left off the Division Series roster, but he has since proven his worth by delivering a strong performance against Seattle in Game 4 of the ALCS, where he allowed just two runs over 5 2/3 innings. This victory marked his eighth career postseason win and his first since the 2019 World Series with the Washington Nationals.
In that Game 4 outing on October 16, Scherzer demonstrated his competitive spirit by insisting on staying in the game during a mound visit, a decision that paid off for Toronto.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Scherzer, calling him “one of one” and highlighting his fierce competitive nature. “He’s a great competitor. You don’t want to touch him during outings,” Roberts stated. “He wants to be the guy.”
Meanwhile, Glasnow has also been impressive this postseason, with a 0.68 ERA across two starts and one relief appearance. He has allowed only one run in 13 1/3 innings, making this matchup even more thrilling for fans and analysts alike.
As Game 3 approaches, both teams are poised for an intense battle, with Scherzer’s veteran prowess and Glasnow’s emerging talent set to collide. Fans of both franchises are eagerly anticipating this crucial game, which could be a turning point in the series.
Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops, and brace for an electrifying night in Los Angeles!