Max Scherzer linked to NL Central team amid uncertain future

Could Max Scherzer sign with Cardinals?

This would certainly be an interesting move. But if signed, Scherzer would be a solid addition to a young team in need of veteran leadership. If Sonny Gray is traded, St. Louis will need to replace him in its starting rotation, and Scherzer could be the right piece. He could serve as a mentor for some of the younger pitchers on the staff and also provide innings and stability as a well-traveled veteran starter.

Injuries might be a bit of a concern, as he was limited to nine starts in 2024 with the Texas Rangers. He also struggled during the regular season with the Toronto Blue Jays, going 5-5 with a 5.19 ERA in 17 starts.

However, if he can stay healthy, the three-time Cy Young winner and eight-time All-Star could be exactly what St. Louis needs. It wouldn't derail the rebuild, but it would also ensure that younger players can benefit from having a veteran presence around.

If the Cardinals fall out of contention and sell at the trade deadline in 2026, perhaps Scherzer could be flipped to a contending team for some prospects. This potential move would make the Cardinals a better team. However, one question remains, and that is whether Scherzer would be willing to pitch for a team that is rebuilding rather than contending.

History suggests that he would prefer to pitch for a contender. He was willing to waive his no-trade clause to leave the New York Mets in 2023 to join the Rangers, who went on to win their first World Series title.

But with Scherzer being from the St. Louis area and having originally been drafted by the Cardinals, this would be a nice homecoming story. Something that fans could potentially get excited about for 2026.

With Scherzer now 41 years old and near the end of his career, he'll likely only be given a one-year deal and shouldn't be too expensive. But it will be interesting to see if he is willing to go to a team in transition.