Blue Jays’ Max Scherzer: ‘I’ll be ready’, eyeing opening day roster spot

Speaking Tuesday at the club’s Player Development Complex in Dunedin, Florida, Max Scherzer addressed reporters after arriving late to spring training.

Despite the delayed start, the 41-year-old made it clear he feels strong and on track.

Max Scherzer says he’ll be ready for the start of the season and is completely past his thumb issues. «I feel good. I feel healthy. I just want to pitch.» #BlueJays

Scherzer will be up against stiff competition for the final rotation spot

His return adds another layer of competition to the Toronto Blue Jays crowded starting rotation picture.

In 2025, Scherzer made 17 regular-season appearances for the Blue Jays, compiling a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA.

He elevated his performance in October, posting a 3.77 ERA across three postseason starts – including 4.1 innings pitched in Game 7 of the World Series.

The three-time Cy Young Award winner said the team’s competitive outlook and clubhouse chemistry played a major role in his decision to return.

“This team can win, and I want to be a part of it.” 🤝 Max Scherzer on whether last season played into his decision to re-sign with the Blue Jays.

Scherzer also confirmed he is no longer dealing with the thumb issue that hampered him throughout last season, though he declined to go into specifics.

Over an illustrious 18-year Major League Baseball career, Scherzer has firmly established himself as one of the defining pitchers of his era.

Across 483 appearances, he owns a 221-117 record with a 3.22 ERA over 2,963 innings pitched.

He has recorded 3,489 strikeouts against just 779 walks.

An eight-time All-Star, Scherzer has captured three Cy Young Awards, one in the American League and two in the National League, and earned two World Series championships.

With Opening Day approaching, Scherzer appears determined to once again be at the center of Toronto’s championship ambitions.

Previously on Blue Jays Central