MLB Rumors: Max Scherzer’s Rumored Shift to a Different Role Leaves Top Insider in Utter Disbelief

In a surprising twist, rumors about Max Scherzer potentially transitioning from an elite starting pitcher to a bullpen closer have sparked heated discussions. The three-time Cy Young Award winner has built his legacy as a dominant starter, making this potential shift a contentious topic. Yet, insider, Jon Morosi, and other industry experts are quick to dismiss the idea as far-fetched.

Throughout his career, as a starting pitcher in baseball, Max Scherzer has become known for his skills on the mound. With an impressive 3,367 career strikeouts to his name, he has been a consistent player. Yet, the rumor mill continues to churn with whispers of Scherzer potentially embracing a closer role, a suggestion that Morosi has described as highly improbable.

The future of Scherzer’s career: starting or relieving?

MLB Networks posted a clip of insider Jon Morosi on X, where he says the offseason has seen its usual share of dramatic moves, with stars like Roki Sasaki and Dylan Cease dominating headlines. As teams adjust their strategies in response to major signings, Scherzer’s name has surfaced as a possible candidate for a shift in role. However, such a move would clash with his established identity as a starter. Morosi further added, “I do not believe he is going to be a closer, Max Scherzer is a starting pitcher.”

A move to the bullpen would also fly in the face of his postseason pedigree. While Scherzer has proven he can thrive in any role, as demonstrated during the 2019 playoffs, those instances were one-off strategic decisions rather than career-defining changes. For a pitcher of his stature, transitioning to a closer role seems unnecessary and unlikely.

This offseason’s player movement could still indirectly influence Scherzer’s future, especially as contenders make adjustments following big acquisitions. Teams like the Padres or Dodgers could reshape the pitching market, potentially opening the door for trades. However, any suggestion of Scherzer becoming a closer feels more like speculation than a realistic plan.

Max Scherzer’s legacy as a starter in MLB

Max Scherzer has solidified his place among the greatest starting pitchers in MLB history with a career defined by durability, dominance, and consistency. Unstoppable excellence over 16 seasons and continuing positions him at 11th place on the historical strikeouts chart. Furthermore, he secured three Cy Young Awards in 2013, 2016, and 2017 and participated in eight All-Star Games. Noteworthy is his feat of leading the league in strikeouts thrice, innings pitched twice, and WHIP four times, demonstrating all aspects of starting pitching. Max also boasts two no-hitters and a memorable 20-strikeout game—testimony to his ability to deliver performances.

Scherzer has played an important role in the playoff pitching staff, bringing victory to the Washington Nationals in the 2019 World Series. Throughout the years he has seen over 150 postseason innings, with a 3.50 ERA showcasing his capability to perform well on the grandest stage of sports, getting admired for his meticulous preparation and competitive spirit. Scherzer has proven himself as a reliable pitcher, surpassing the 200-inning mark in a season eight times.

In essence, Max Scherzer is widely recognized as one of the top starting pitchers. And so, it appears improbable that he will transition to another role as teams make changes to their lineups this offseason.

Do you think Max Scherzer would be able to show his skills as a closer? Let us know your thoughts!