The Toronto Blue Jays and starting pitcher Max Scherzer have agreed on a one-year $15.5 million deal. The three-time Cy Young award winner looks to bolster the backend of an otherwise strong starting rotation. With plenty of buzz in the fan base around the signing, it’s important to take a step back to analyze.
The 40-year-old is highly decorated and accomplished. He is an eight-time All-Star with two World Series trophies on his resume. Since beginning in 2008, Scherzer boasts a career 3.16 ERA. This name-brand signing has Jays fans excited.
Fans can expect Scherzer to be slotted near the bottom of the Blue Jays rotation. With Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, and Jose Berrios, seemingly locked in for the top three, the bottom of the rotation has plenty of intrigue. What will the team do with the likes of Yariel Rodriguez, Bowden Francis, and Alek Mona, amongst others?
Fans should be wary of their expectations for the future Hall of Famer. Scherzer did not play double-digit games in a season for the two years he was with the Rangers. He missed time to repair a herniated disk, followed by time due to shoulder fatigue, so there are longevity concerns across a full season. If Scherzer can stay healthy, he did boast a sub-four ERA with Texas.
Considering that only three years ago, Scherzer had a 2.29 ERA over an 11-win season, in which he played 23 games, there is reason for optimism, especially for a starved Blue Jays fan base. If nothing else, Scherzer brings leadership and a championship mentality. Skepticism would point out the steady decline and lack of health. Toronto will look to maximize the talent without jeopardizing his health, which is easier said than done.
Howe Fresh
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