Max Scherzer’s Toronto Blue Jays debut ended prematurely due to a thumb injury that led to right lat soreness after just three innings. The three-time Cy Young Award winner threw 45 pitches before being forced to exit the game. Scherzer expressed frustration in the dugout after learning he would not be able to continue pitching past the third inning. He believed that his ongoing thumb issue may have led to the lat problem and hinted that pushing through the discomfort could have caused more serious issues.
Scherzer has been dealing with thumb discomfort since spring training, and he felt tightness in his lat while warming up before the game. Despite warning his manager about the potential issue, Scherzer still took the mound but was unable to continue beyond the third inning. He acknowledged that pitching through the discomfort could have led to more serious injuries and expressed concern about the situation escalating if he had continued.
Throughout his career, Scherzer has faced various injuries, including back surgery that delayed his 2024 debut and a nerve issue that further pushed back his return to the mound last season. Despite making nine starts last season for the Texas Rangers, Scherzer’s 2025 debut with the Blue Jays was cut short due to the thumb and lat issues. He gave up three hits and two earned runs before exiting the game, which ultimately ended in a 9-5 loss for the Blue Jays.
Following the game, Jays manager John Schneider mentioned that Scherzer was still progressing in the right direction, indicating that the team is hopeful for a quick recovery. Scherzer’s frustration was evident as he had to leave the game earlier than expected, but he understood the importance of taking care of his health in order to avoid more serious consequences. The Blue Jays faced the Baltimore Orioles in the final game of their series the following day at Rogers Centre.
Scherzer’s experience highlights the challenges that professional athletes face in managing injuries and pushing through discomfort to perform at the highest level. Despite his impressive track record and accolades, injuries have been a consistent obstacle in Scherzer’s career. The Blue Jays will need to monitor his recovery closely to ensure that he can return to the mound at full strength and continue to contribute to the team’s success in the future. Fans and teammates alike will be eager to see Scherzer back in action once he has fully recovered from his thumb and lat issues.
