Max Scherzer Receives Standing Ovation After Potential Last MLB Appearance
Legendary ace Max Scherzer could've pitched his last baseball on Sunday if he chooses to retire.
Max Scherzer, the three-time Cy Young award winner, appeared to deliver his final Major League Baseball (MLB) performance on Sunday during the Toronto Blue Jays' season finale against the Cincinnati Reds. The 42-year-old, who had just completed his 20th MLB season, was set to pitch for one last time in front of his family. Despite being on short rest, Scherzer pitched into the eighth inning, striking out seven batters and allowing six hits and one run scored against him.
If Scherzer decides to retire at the end of the offseason, his last opponent would be Reds shortstop Oswaldo Cabrera. Cabrera walked with one strike and four balls thrown by Scherzer in his last plate appearance. When manager John Schneider signaled for Scherzer to leave the mound, the Rogers Centre erupted into cheers for the legendary ace. Scherzer exchanged words and embraced his teammates after being sat down. The two-time World Series champion received a standing ovation from Blue Jays fans.
Scherzer stated on Saturday that he would not make a decision about his future until the offseason, as per The Associated Press. He mentioned that he had discussed the matter with his inner circle, and they all felt the same way – emphasizing the need to wait and see how things unfold. Although Scherzer has not publicly announced his future intentions, it would seem fitting for him to retire after this emotional moment.
Scherzer's 2026 season was his least successful yet, with a 3-9 record and a 6.14 ERA in 17 starts for the Blue Jays. Despite facing challenges, legendary pitchers eventually have to call it a career.
Written by urgent.news from Newsweek's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
