Blue Jays finalize 1-year deal with 3-time Cy Young winner Max Scherzer
The Toronto Blue Jays made a significant move on Tuesday by finalizing a $15.5 million US, one-year contract with three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer. The 40-year-old veteran pitcher had a challenging season with the Texas Rangers last year, making only nine starts and finishing with a 2-4 record and a 3.95 ERA. Scherzer dealt with various injuries throughout the season, including lower back surgery, shoulder fatigue, and a left hamstring strain.
Scherzer now joins a promising Blue Jays rotation that features Kevin Gausman, Jose Berrios, and Chris Bassitt. The team also has young talents like Bowden Francis and Yariel Rodriguez, who signed a lucrative five-year contract last February. The addition of Scherzer adds experience and leadership to a team looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2023 season where they finished last in the AL East with a 74-88 record.
This signing comes on the heels of the Blue Jays’ acquisition of outfielder Anthony Santander on a $92.5 million, five-year contract earlier in January. Scherzer entered free agency after completing a $130 million, three-year deal and was initially signed by the New York Mets before being traded to the Rangers in July 2023. The right-hander has an impressive resume, with World Series titles in 2019 with the Washington Nationals and in 2023 with the Rangers.
Throughout his 17-year career, Scherzer has compiled a record of 216-112 with a 3.16 ERA in 466 games, including 457 starts. He has amassed 3,407 strikeouts in 2,878 innings, ranking second among active pitchers in strikeouts, wins, and innings behind his former teammate, Justin Verlander.
In a corresponding move, the Blue Jays designated right-hander Michael Petersen for assignment to make room for Scherzer on the roster. The team is looking to solidify its pitching staff and compete for a playoff spot in the upcoming season.
In other MLB news, the Chicago Cubs made a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers to acquire right-handed pitcher Ryan Brasier. The Cubs sent a player to be named later or cash considerations to the Dodgers in exchange for Brasier, who was recently cut by the World Series champions. Brasier had a solid season in 2023, posting a 3.54 ERA in 29 games, including four starts.
The Cubs have been active in revamping their bullpen as they aim to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Brasier, a 37-year-old veteran, brings experience and depth to the Cubs’ pitching staff. He is owed $4.5 million in the second year of his two-year contract and can become a free agent after the World Series.
Brasier made his MLB debut with the Los Angeles Angels in 2013 and joined the Dodgers after being released by the Boston Red Sox in 2023. He has accumulated a 10-8 record with a 3.85 ERA and 10 saves in 297 career games. To make room for Brasier on the roster, the Cubs designated left-hander Rob Zastryzny for assignment.
These moves showcase the ongoing activity in the MLB offseason as teams prepare for the upcoming season. The Blue Jays and Cubs are making strategic additions to strengthen their rosters and compete at a high level in their respective divisions. Fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead with these new acquisitions in place.
