Max Scherzer reaches milestone after stellar outing against Mariners

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Max Scherzer reaches milestone after stellar outing against Mariners

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Aug 30, 2026 4:25 PM ET

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer aka ''Mad Max'' continued his climb up the record books on Sunday against the Seattle Mariners. Scherzer recorded strikeout number 3,535, passing Gaylord Perry and taking sole possession of ninth on MLB's all-time strikeout list.

Scherzer reached the milestone in 2,330.1 fewer innings than Perry.

He got right to work on Sunday, striking out the side in the first inning.

Scherzer pitched seven stellar innings, giving up one hit with 10 strikeouts, no runs and one walk. He put forth his best start this season while helping the Blue Jays to complete the sweep against the Mariners.

WHAT A MOMENT FOR MAX SCHERZER

Mad Max passes Gaylord Perry for ninth all-time in career strikeouts pic.twitter.com/Hwgpo2QeKd
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) August 30, 2026

Max Scherzer's stellar performance showcases how he still has the wow factor

Scherzer's outstanding performance has put him in elite company, as he joined Nolan Ryan (1990-91) as the oldest pitchers to record 10 strikeouts in an MLB game while allowing no more than two baserunners according to Codify Baseball.

His impeccable performance demonstrated he can still provide quality outings for the Blue Jays.

Scherzer generated an elite 36% whiff rate and it was his first scoreless start of seven-plus scoreless innings with 10+ strikeouts since 2023. It couldn't have come at a better time for the Blue Jays, who are one game out of the final AL wild-card spot.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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