Max Scherzer Discusses What Led Him to Sign with Toronto Blue Jays

The future Hall of Famer says he joined the Jays because they offer the best chance to win in 2025.

Texas Rangers pitcher Max Scherzer (31)m throws a first inning pitch against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in 2024. | Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images

Speaking on Friday, new Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer explained what led him to sign North of the Border this offseason.

"I'm not just playing to play. I'm playing to win. I feel like Toronto offered that."

The proven winner wants to win again 😤

Be here all 2025!

— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) February 7, 2025

Even though the Jays finished last in the American League East in 2024, there is a sense of urgency to win with an aging roster and the expiring contracts of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. In addition to Scherzer, the Jays have acquired Anthony Santander, Andres Gimenez, Yimi Garcia and Jeff Hoffman this offseason. Scherzer's deal is for one-year and $15.5 million.

The 40-year-old Scherzer is a 17-year veteran of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, Texas Rangers, New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers. He helped the Nationals win the World Series in 2019 and was part of the Rangers team that captured the title in 2023.

Lifetime, he's 216-112 with a 3.16 ERA. He battled injury in 2024, making just nine starts, so the Blue Jays will hope he's healthy in 2025. He'll also provide veteran leadership throughout the clubhouse. A notoriously hard worker, he'll set a positive example for young players who come through the clubhouse.

Scherzer is an eight-time All-Star and a three-time Cy Young winner. He's struck out 3,407 batters in his career, which is second among current pitchers (Justin Verlander).

He'll pair with Jose Berrios, Kevin Gausman, and Chris Bassitt in the starting rotation with Yariel Rodriguez and Bowden Francis battling it out for the fifth spot.

The Blue Jays report to spring training next week.

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