In a thrilling showdown in Seattle, Max Scherzer made a remarkable return to the postseason, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to an impressive 8-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners in Game 4 of the American League Championship Series. Despite battling through injuries and struggles earlier in the season, Scherzer's determination shone through as he fought to remain in the game during the fifth inning.
As the fifth inning unfolded, Blue Jays manager John Schneider made his way to the mound, only to be met with a vehement "No!" from the 41-year-old right-hander. Following a brief discussion, Schneider decided to let Scherzer continue, a decision that would pay off handsomely. "He started the conversation with ‘I’m good’," Schneider recounted with a smile. "I said, ‘Are you sure?’ I told him to execute, and he did."
This season, Scherzer had faced significant challenges, including a thumb injury that sidelined him and a tough September that saw him left off the Division Series roster. However, in this crucial moment, Scherzer rose to the occasion. Having completed two trips through the batting order, he had surrendered just one run—a solo home run by Josh Naylor—while the Blue Jays held a commanding 5-1 lead.
Scherzer's performance at that moment was nothing short of extraordinary. With 4 2/3 innings pitched and only one run allowed, it was a best-case scenario for a pitcher who hadn't taken the mound in three weeks. "It was a two-out situation, and I just checked the board, and I was at 69 or 70 pitches, and my arm felt great," Scherzer reflected after the game. "I knew I wanted the ball. I knew the situation of the game, and I wanted the ball."
Ultimately, Scherzer's fierce determination earned him the opportunity to face more batters, and he rewarded Schneider's faith with three additional outs. He concluded the fifth inning by striking out Randy Arozarena and returned for the sixth, where he secured two more outs. His final line of 5 2/3 innings pitched, allowing only two earned runs, marked his best performance since August 25 and his longest postseason outing since 2021.
Max Scherzer's performance in his postseason debut for the Toronto Blue Jays not only showcased his immense talent but also his desire to compete at the highest level. As the team moves forward in the American League Championship Series, Scherzer's resilience and determination will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their quest for victory.
