Rangers’ Pitcher Max Scherzer Makes Return to Team’s Rotation after Healthy Rehab

Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy has announced that Max Scherzer may be rejoining the team’s rotation after his final rehab start in the minors. Scherzer was set to start for Triple-A Round Rock, with a pitch count of around 75 pitches, in hopes that it would be his last stint in the minors. In his previous rehab start for Round Rock, Scherzer retired 12 of 14 batters, throwing 53 pitches and allowing just one hit and walk.

Scherzer’s first rehab start was on April 24, where he threw 52 pitches for Round Rock. However, the second start was delayed due to a right thumb issue that was later identified as a nerve problem extending to his right triceps. He had back surgery in December and has not pitched for the Rangers since the last season’s World Series.

The Rangers acquired Scherzer from the New York Mets in July, after he opted in on his contract for this season at $43.3 million. New York is paying $30.83 million of that to Texas. After the trade, Scherzer had a 4-2 record with a 3.20 ERA in eight starts for Texas, before being sidelined by a muscle strain in his shoulder. He returned for two starts in the ALCS and one in the World Series before exiting due to his back.

Scherzer has 3,367 strikeouts, second among active pitchers with Justin Verlander passing him this season for Houston. He also ranks second to Verlander in active wins and starts