The Toronto Blue Jays have confirmed that three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer will start Game 3 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This decision comes after a thrilling comeback victory in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series, where the Blue Jays defeated the New York Yankees. Toronto and Los Angeles are currently tied at one game each in the championship series, with Game 3 scheduled for Monday, October 16, 2023, in Southern California.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider recounted a light-hearted moment following the ALCS victory when Scherzer approached him with a question about his World Series start. “I was like, ‘Max, I’m enjoying a beer, man,'” Schneider said, reflecting on Scherzer’s eagerness to know his role in the upcoming games. Scherzer’s determination is evident, as he prepares to face Dodgers right-hander Tyler Glasnow.
Scherzer, now 41 years old, expressed enthusiasm about his fifth World Series start, stating, “This is what you play for, to be able to get to this spot, to get to this moment.” He highlighted the rarity of such opportunities, noting, “There are so many great players that have never gotten to a World Series.”
Despite being left off Toronto’s roster for the Division Series, Scherzer has made an impactful return during the postseason, securing his eighth career postseason win in Game 4 of the ALCS against the Seattle Mariners. In that game, he pitched 5 2/3 innings and allowed just two runs. Scherzer made history by becoming the oldest pitcher to start a postseason game since Jamie Moyer, who did so at age 45 in the 2008 World Series.
In his previous outing against the Mariners, a pivotal moment occurred when Schneider visited the mound in the fifth inning. Scherzer made it clear that he wanted to remain in the game, which Schneider allowed, demonstrating his trust in the seasoned pitcher.
Scherzer’s time with the Dodgers in 2021 was marked by success, as he went 7-0 in 11 starts after being acquired at the trade deadline. His former manager, Dave Roberts, praised Scherzer’s competitiveness, saying, “He’s one of one… I really enjoyed managing a future Hall of Famer.”
On the opposing mound, Glasnow has been effective for the Dodgers this October, holding a 0-0 record with a remarkable 0.68 ERA over two starts and one relief appearance, having given up just one run in 13 1/3 innings.
As the World Series progresses, both teams are poised for an exciting matchup, with Scherzer’s experience and Glasnow’s impressive form highlighting the stakes of Game 3.
