Max Scherzer, a pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, is set to make history by becoming the only living pitcher to start two winner-take-all Game 7s in the World Series. The upcoming game will see Scherzer facing off against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with their star player Shohei Ohtani taking the mound.
Scherzer previously started Game 7 of the 2019 World Series, where he received a cortisone injection for a nerve issue near his neck. Despite a challenging start, he left the game after five innings with his team trailing by two runs, only for the Washington Nationals to rally back and secure a 6-2 victory in Houston.
In World Series history, only a few pitchers, including Bob Gibson, Lew Burdette, and Don Larsen, have started multiple winner-take-all Game 7s. Scherzer, aged 41, signed a $15.5 million one-year contract with Toronto, aiming to secure his third World Series ring after previous victories with Washington in 2019 and Texas in 2023. The veteran pitcher has been actively sharing his expertise with the Blue Jays.
During this season, Scherzer faced challenges, including a period of absence due to thumb inflammation and neck pain that led to a temporary exclusion from the playoff roster. However, he showcased his skill during the American League Championship Series, notably with a decisive win in Game 4 against Seattle.
The decision to start Ohtani for the Dodgers in Game 7 aligns with a rule change implemented in 2022, allowing pitchers who start in the batting lineup to transition to a designated hitter role after leaving the mound. Ohtani, known for his two-way prowess, has been a standout performer in the current World Series, excelling both at the plate and on the pitching mound.
Toronto and Los Angeles are gearing up for an intense Game 7, with the Blue Jays participating in their first World Series Game 7, while the Dodgers have a mix of past victories and defeats in Game 7 scenarios. The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the World Series as these two powerhouse teams face off for baseball glory.