Max Scherzer, the pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, is set to make history by being the only living pitcher to start two decisive Game 7s in the World Series. Scheduled to pitch on Saturday night against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Scherzer will be facing off against the Dodgers’ star player, Shohei Ohtani.
This is not the first time Scherzer has started a Game 7 in the World Series. Back in 2019, he took the mound for the Washington Nationals, receiving a cortisone injection for a nerve issue near his neck. Despite a challenging start, Scherzer left the game after five innings with his team trailing by two runs. However, the Nationals eventually rallied to secure a 6-2 victory in Houston.
Among pitchers who have started multiple winner-take-all Game 7s in the World Series, only a few names stand out, including Bob Gibson, Lew Burdette, and Don Larsen. Scherzer, now 41, signed a one-year contract worth $15.5 million with Toronto, aiming to claim his third World Series title after previous wins with Washington in 2019 and Texas in 2023. With 18 years of experience in the major leagues, Scherzer has been actively sharing his knowledge and insights with the Blue Jays.
During the current season, Scherzer faced some challenges, with a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA in 17 starts. Despite missing some games due to thumb inflammation and neck pain, he made a strong comeback during the American League Championship Series by delivering a crucial win for the team.
As the World Series Game 7 approaches, the decision to start Ohtani for the Dodgers is strategically sound. A rule change in 2022 allows pitchers who start as designated hitters to remain in the game after pitching. Ohtani, known for his versatility, has never pitched in relief during his MLB career but has showcased his skills both on the mound and at the plate.
Both Toronto and Los Angeles have a chance to make history in Game 7, with the Blue Jays playing their first-ever Game 7 in the World Series while the Dodgers look to add another victory to their record. The stage is set for an intense and memorable showdown between these two powerhouse teams.