Dave Litman
In an overnight deal, three-time Cy Young winner Max Scherzer agreed to run it back with the American League champion Toronto Blue Jays. The two sides agreed on an intriguing one-year deal, loaded with incentives.
The agreement contains a $3 million salary, and $10 million in incentives. Insider Ken Rosenthal confirms that the bonuses come in starting at the 65-inning mark. It also comes with no-trade protection.
Last season, Scherzer struggled to stay healthy and consistent during the regular season. He was able to make only 17 starts, and posted a 5.19 ERA across 85 innings. However, when the chips were down in the postseason, the two-time World Series winner came up big, with a 3.77 ERA in three starts. Not the least of which was his gutsy Game 7 start in the World Series against the LA Dodgers, when he allowed just one run across 4.2 innings, and left with a 3-1 lead.
Scherzer back with Blue Jays for 19th MLB season
It was already apparent after the heartbreaking result of that Game 7 loss that the 41-year-old was determined to come back in 2026. “I just don’t see how that’s the last pitch I’ve ever thrown,” he said on that early November night.
He battled a thumb problem all season in ’25, an issue which also led to pain through his arm and shoulder. It seems like he’s confident he has that figured out and will be ready to endure the rigours of his 19th major league season.
Given his age and the late signing date, Scherzer will take his time to ramp up for the season. But adding depth to the rotation, and a valuable clubhouse presence, he’ll be a key piece once again for manager John Schneider to count on in times of need. Even if he’s sometimes afraid that Mad Max might kill him.
