Max Scherzer, the experienced right-hander for the Texas Rangers, has taken the mound for his first start since undergoing back surgery. Scherzer made this appearance with the Triple-A affiliate team on Wednesday. The veteran pitcher is anticipated to endure a substantial rehab period prior to being activated by the MLB club.
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy has indicated that Scherzer will adhere to a stringent pitch count of around 50. This decision is based on Scherzer’s previous simulated game on Friday, where he threw 40 pitches. Following surgery on December 15 to rectify a herniated disc, Scherzer was projected to be sidelined until June or July.
Scherzer, who will turn 40 in July, showcased an impressive performance with the Rangers last season after being acquired from the New York Mets at the trade deadline. He compiled a record of 4-2 with a 3.20 ERA across eight regular-season starts. However, he was unable to participate in the wild-card or division series due to a shoulder strain and faced setbacks in the American League Championship Series, recording an 0-1 record with a 9.45 ERA in two starts. Scherzer’s significant contribution came in Game 3 of the World Series, where he pitched three scoreless innings, leading to a 3-1 victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Scherzer disclosed during the offseason that he had experienced nerve pain extending into his legs, along with discomfort beyond inflammation. Despite exploring less invasive treatments, Scherzer ultimately opted for surgery, believing it offered the optimal opportunity to maximize his pitching capabilities for the Rangers in the upcoming 2024 season.
If Scherzer manages to make a successful comeback in midsummer, it would bolster the Rangers’ pitching rotation significantly during the second half of the season. Right-handers Jacob deGrom and Tyler Mahle are also aiming for August returns after recovering from Tommy John surgeries, providing a formidable pitching trio for Texas.
Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award recipient and eight-time All-Star, boasts an exceptional career record. In 457 games (448 starts) pitched for various teams, including the Diamondbacks, Tigers, Nationals, Dodgers, Mets, and Rangers, he has accumulated an impressive 214-108 win-loss record, a remarkable 3.15 ERA, and an astounding 3,367 strikeouts. This article was initially published by Field Level Media and syndicated with their authorization.
