What Happened to Max Scherzer? Max Scherzer Injury Update
by Reshwanth A
Updated Jun 09, 2023
Who is Max Scherzer?
Maxwell Martin Scherzer, born on July 27, 1984, is an accomplished American baseball pitcher currently signed with the New York Mets in Major League Baseball (MLB). Over the course of his career, he has also played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, and Los Angeles Dodgers.
As a right-handed starting pitcher, Scherzer has established an impressive reputation, earning eight MLB All-Star selections, three Cy Young Awards, and achieving the remarkable feat of pitching two no-hitters. Notably, he was an integral part of the Washington Nationals' World Series victory in 2019. Renowned for his fierce determination and competitiveness on the field, he has earned the nickname "Mad Max," drawing inspiration from the fictional character of the same name in popular movies.
What Happened to Max Scherzer?
Max Scherzer has been grappling with a nagging back injury that has persisted throughout the entirety of the 2023 season, and unfortunately, it seems to have taken a toll on his performance, resulting in a below-par season for the esteemed pitcher. As a three-time Cy Young winner, Scherzer has established himself as one of the most dominant forces on the mound, but this year has presented a different story. Over the course of five starts, spanning a total of 22 2/3 innings pitched, Scherzer has struggled to find his usual form. His earned run average (ERA) stands at a concerning 5.56, a far cry from his previous seasons' stellar performances.
Additionally, his fielding independent pitching (FIP) sits at an even higher 6.35, further indicating the difficulties he has faced. Given his track record of excellence, it is evident that Scherzer's back injury has had a significant impact on his ability to perform at his usual elite level. The physical strain and discomfort associated with such an injury can undoubtedly hamper a player's mechanics and overall effectiveness on the field.
Max Scherzer Injury Update
Scherzer hasn't been officially placed on the injured list, he encountered a setback on May 9 when he was unable to start his game against the Reds due to neck spasms. Throughout his illustrious career, Scherzer has showcased remarkable durability, commencing 30 or more games in 11 out of his 15 seasons in the major leagues. However, in 2022, he did experience a series of missed starts owing to an injury in his side muscles, specifically his oblique.
Fortunately, reports indicate that the Mets are not excessively concerned about any long-term implications regarding Scherzer's neck. Encouragingly, based on his recent bullpen session last Friday, it seems that this setback is only temporary in nature. In the ongoing 2023 season, Scherzer has also been grappling with a back injury, primarily located below his right shoulder blade. Astonishingly, he has managed to avoid being placed on the injured list thus far. Nevertheless, he did have to sit out a start in late April to address this injury.
What is Happening with Max Scherzer?
Max Scherzer's recent struggles have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. The esteemed pitcher, known for his dominant performances, is currently facing a series of setbacks. He was unable to start a game against the Reds on May 9 due to neck spasms, and although he hasn't been placed on the injured list, it remains a cause for worry. Throughout his career, Scherzer has been remarkably durable, starting 30 or more games in 11 of his 15 seasons in the major leagues.
However, he had to miss several starts in 2022 due to an oblique injury. The Mets, his current team, have expressed minimal concern about any long-term issues with his neck, but the uncertainty surrounding his condition lingers. Additionally, Scherzer has been contending with a back injury in the 2023 season, particularly below his right shoulder blade. Despite managing to avoid an injured list stint, he did miss a start in late April to address this concern.
What Happened to Max Scherzer - FAQs
Max Scherzer has been dealing with a back injury throughout the 2023 season, which has affected his performance on the field.
No, Scherzer has managed to avoid being placed on the injured list despite his back injury.
Yes, Scherzer missed a start in late April due to his back injury, and he was unable to start a game against the Reds on May 9 due to neck spasms.
Unfortunately, Scherzer's performance has been sub-standard this season, with a 5.56 ERA (6.35 FIP) over 22 2/3 innings pitched in five starts.
Reports suggest that the Mets, Scherzer's current team, have minimal concerns about any long-term problems with his neck, and the back injury is being managed without an IL stint. However, his performance and recovery will continue to be monitored closely.