Scherzer Shines in Blue Jays Spring Debut, Punches Out Four over Two Innings…………
Dunedin, Fla., February 25, 2025 — Three‑time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer, newly donned in Blue Jays blue, delivered an impressive spring debut on Tuesday, fanning four batters across two strong innings. His performance was a key factor in Toronto’s 3–2 spring-training victory over the St. Louis Cardinals .
Toronto’s rotation has been bolstered this offseason by the addition of Scherzer, who signed a one-year, $15 million deal earlier in February. With a storied career that includes over 3,400 strikeouts and three Cy Youngs, expectations were high. And in his first outing at the Grapefruit League, the 40-year-old veteran waived goodbye to any rust.
Swift Work with Poise and Precision
In a compact, 34-pitch appearance, Scherzer allowed only one hit and issued no walks, pounding the strike zone with 20 strikes . He topped out at 94.2 mph on a strikeout pitch to Lars Nootbaar, demonstrating that his electric “Mad Max” fastball is still very much alive .
Sportsnet’s Shi Davidi offered further insight, noting that Scherzer’s outing featured “two innings of work, four strikeouts and eight total whiffs on 16 swings at four different pitches,” showcasing his full arsenal of fastball, slider, changeup, and curve . With his spring ERA sitting at 0.00 and only one hit surrendered, Scherzer sent a clear signal that he’s on track.
A “Box-Checking” Approach
Despite the strong showing, Scherzer downplayed any early-game interpretation, emphasizing the importance of spring training fundamentals.
> “I’m not riding this roller‑coaster—I’m not saying this is too good, or too bad,” he reflected after the game. “This is, come out here, check the box, be healthy and get out of here.”
Manager John Schneider echoed the sentiment, noting: “When Max Scherzer is on the mound, it doesn’t matter that it’s February.” .
Building Chemistry Behind the Plate
Scherzer also took advantage of spring to build rapport with his new battery-mate, rookie catcher Alejandro Kirk. The duo focused on synchronizing pitch sequencing and strike-zone strategy.
> “Ŵe do a bunch of homework before the start… with time, that will get ironed out,” Scherzer explained, referring to Kirk .
He even tested MLB’s new ABS challenge system with a curveball low in the zone during the second inning—an early glimpse of his attention to detail .
Context and Outlook for Spring Camps
Scherzer’s debut-themed performance fits within a broader pattern of elite spring showings. Within spring training, Taylor Field Level Media described his outing as “solid,” highlighting a 34-pitch frame with exceptional control .
This performance further establishes tension between the need to ramp up intensity and the caution demanded by Scherzer’s veteran status. Toronto remains optimistic: “healthy, reliable innings” is the goal .
Spring Peers and Teammate Spotlight
Post-Scherzer, Bowden Francis followed with two innings of one-run ball, tossing a 95 mph heater, and earning praise for the opportunity to share the mound with a legend—“awesome,” Francis noted .
Meanwhile, Kevin Gausman continues his ramp-up without shoulder fatigue concerns, further stabilizing one of the American League’s most intriguing rotations .
What Comes Next
Scherzer’s spring debut marks the first of an expected handful of starts aimed at building “game‑speed” rhythm before the season opener . Next up: a continuation of measured ramp-up—with an eye on maintaining health and sustaining velocity.
His path forward will involve gradually increased pitch counts, strategic bullpen work, and seamless collaboration with his catcher. At 40, with 18 seasons under his belt, Scherzer continues to chase not just another contract but another championship run.
Final Take
Velocity holds: Clocked at 94+ mph, he proved his arm remains electric.
Control shining: One hit, no walks, four strikeouts—spring fundamentals executed with authority.
Strategic mindset: Scherzer’s box-checking mentality shines—execution over hype.
Team connection: Building acclimation with Kirk will pay dividends in 2025.
Health first: Toronto will continue cautious ramping to protect performance long-term.
If Scherzer navigates spring without injury and extends this sharp form into April, the Blue Jays’ rotation will enter Opening Day with a marquee-arm, offering stability, experience, and strikeout power.
As spring unfolds in Florida’s Grapefruit League, all eyes will remain on Max Scherzer—not for flash,but for the steady return of dominance that has defined his Hall‑of‑Fame career.