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Blue Jays Announce Max Scherzer Decision Before Mariners Game
© Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

The Toronto Blue Jays have had an incredible season, but will return home for Game 6 of the ALCS against the Seattle Mariners facing elimination. Toronto must win two consecutive matchups to keep its hopes of reaching the World Series alive.

The Blue Jays already proved capable of taking two straight games from Seattle, doing so in Games 3 and 4. A key factor in that stretch was a resurgent outing from Max Scherzer. The 41-year-old veteran ace was left off Toronto’s ALDS roster but was added for the ALCS and delivered when the team needed him most. In his 500th career start, Scherzer tossed 5 2/3 innings, allowed two runs, struck out five and earned the win with a quality start.

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer (31)Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

As both teams prepare for Game 6 with an off day on Saturday, Blue Jays manager John Schneider addressed the media and his plans for keeping the season alive. Schneider decided that Scherzer would be available to pitch for the Blue Jays on Sunday, with just two days of rest.

“We’re trying to win one game in a row. We’ve done that 99 times this year,” Schneider told MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson. With a Game 7 not guaranteed, Schneider has made it clear that all his arms will be available following the starter, rookie sensation Trey Yesavage.

With Scherzer in his 18th big-league season, it appears increasingly likely that this may be his final opportunity on baseball’s biggest stage. Scherzer has already taken home two World Series titles in his career. He is well on his way to the Hall of Fame, operating as one of the league’s best arms over the past two decades. He has collected eight All-Star selections along with three Cy Young Awards. Scherzer has totaled 3,489 strikeouts in the regular season to go with a career 3.22 ERA.

As Toronto prepares for a win-or-go-home Game 6, Scherzer’s presence looms large both on the mound and in the clubhouse. His competitive fire and postseason experience give the Blue Jays a valuable edge as they fight to extend their season. Whether he pitches in relief on Sunday or in a potential Game 7, Scherzer’s impact could be decisive. The Blue Jays are still in search of their first World Series appearance since 1993.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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