Max Scherzer

Max Scherzer is scheduled to start the fifth game of the regular season on the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Fantasy Impact

Scherzer rounds out a Toronto rotation missing Trey Yesavage, Shane Bieber, and Jose Berrios early on, with the veteran right-hander coming off an inconsistent 2025, posting a 1.29 WHIP and 5.19 ERA over 17 starts (5-5, 82 strikeouts) on the mound.

Scherzer signed with Toronto last week after dealing with nagging thumb problems throughout last season. He said Tuesday that the thumb issues are completely resolved.

Fantasy Impact

Scherzer has been throwing independently and his conditioning appears to be at a typical spring training level despite the recent signing. He will make his Grapefruit League debut on Saturday against Philadelphia and hopes to pitch multiple innings. Scherzer's readiness for the start of the regular season could result in Jose Berrios moving to a long relief role.

The Blue Jays say Max Scherzer could make his spring debut over the weekend against the Phillies on Saturday.

Fantasy Impact

Scherzer is slated to finalize his new deal with Toronto early this week. He played catch on Monday as he works his way back into game shape for the Blue Jays.

Scherzer re-signed with Toronto on Wednesday, agreeing to a one-year contract that can reach $13 million with incentives. Last season, he made a single start in March before a lingering thumb issue sidelined him, and he did not return to the rotation until late June.

Fantasy Impact

Scherzer appears healthier this spring. Toronto may prioritize his availability for September and October over the opening weeks of the season, potentially using a gradual buildup to start the year. Shane Bieber will open the campaign on the injured list with a forearm issue. Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease, Trey Yesavage, Cody Ponce and Jose Berrios give the organization rotation options early in the season.

Max Scherzer returns to Blue Jays on a one-year deal.

Fantasy Impact

Scherzer was expected to ultimately return to Toronto, but recent speculation suggested that the 41-year-old might not sign until after Opening Day. Scherzer's new deal includes incentives that pickup at the 65-inning mark. The future Hall of Famer made 20 starts between the regular season and playoffs last year, working 99 1/3 innings in total.