The Toronto Blue Jays have landed Max Scherzer, however, this signing comes with its fair share of concerns. At 40 years old, Scherzer is no longer the dominant ace he once was. Injuries have piled up in current years, enhancing doubts related to how much the Blue Jays can truly rely on him.

Scherzer’s $15.5 million deal could seem reasonable. However, availability is just as vital as talent. His current injury history says Toronto could be taking a vital risk. With the AL East looking as competitive as ever, can Max Scherzer hold up as well as deliver when it matters most?

In 2023 alone, Max Scherzer battled neck spasms, arm fatigue as well as a strained teres vital muscle. Such injuries forced him to miss a month of activity. However, the largest issue for the veteran pitcher is the back surgery he underwent at the period of the 2023-24 offseason. While Scherzer is healthy now, back issues are always a concern for pitchers in their late 30s and early 40s. Max Scherzer’s performance has already decreased. His WHIP ballooned to 1.14 and such a number highlight the wear and tear his body has faced.

Ken Rosenthal highlighted this concern on Foul Territory, saying, “You cannot count on him the way you once did.” Scherzer, who has logged over 3,000 career innings and made 8 All-Star appearances, has seen a noticeable dip in his strikeouts. His per innings strikeouts decreased from a career high of 11.1 in 2018 to just 8.4 in 2023. With a history of injuries, assuming a full, healthy season from him might be more hope than reality, making his signing a gamble for the Blue Jays.

Why Toronto took the Max Scherzer risk anyway

Despite the concerns, the Blue Jays saw value in bringing in Scherzer. It is true that he is not the workhorse he used to be. However, his leadership and competitiveness could bring something to the team. As Rosenthal highlighted, “This is the most competitive people I have ever met inside and outside the game.” His performance in games is unquestionable, with 8 postseason appearances and a 3.32 ERA in the playoffs. His experience has provided the capability to manage pressure when it matters most. Toronto is banking on that fire to push their rotation forward.

Another vital reason the Blue Jays took the plunge was Max Scherzer’s more reasonable salary. Coming off a deal worth over $40 million with the Mets, he now is ready to earn $15.5 million with Toronto. This new contract is closer to the $16 million the Blue Jays paid for pitchers, like José Berríos. While Scherzer could not give them a full 30 starts, but his high-level pitching IQ make him a worthwhile investment.

Scherzer’s signing is a total gamble for the Blue Jays. If he stays healthy, he could elevate their rotation. However, his injury history raises doubts. Toronto is banking on Scherzer’s experience and competitiveness, but the real test will come when the season unfolds. Will it pay off? Stay tuned and provide your thought on this.