Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider has confirmed that three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer will take the mound for Game 3 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. This pivotal matchup is scheduled for Monday night in Southern California, with both teams currently tied at one game apiece in the best-of-seven series.
The decision comes on the heels of Scherzer’s inquiry shortly after the Blue Jays secured a thrilling comeback victory in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series. Schneider recounted the moment: “When am I starting in the World Series?” Scherzer had asked, to which Schneider responded with a smile, “Max, I’m enjoying a beer, man.” This illustrates Scherzer’s dedication and desire to be involved at every step of his team’s postseason journey.
Scherzer’s Experience and Determination
At 41 years old, Scherzer is set to make his fifth World Series start. He expressed his excitement about this opportunity, stating, “This is what you play for, to be able to get to this spot, to get to this moment, to have a shot at it.” Scherzer acknowledged the rarity of such chances in a player’s career, noting, “There are so many great players that have never gotten to a World Series.” His experience will be invaluable as the Blue Jays aim to capture their first championship since 1992.
Having been left off Toronto’s roster for the Division Series against the New York Yankees, Scherzer made a notable comeback in the ALCS, where he secured a victory against the Seattle Mariners in Game 4. He allowed just two runs over 5 2/3 innings, marking his eighth career postseason win and his first since the 2019 World Series with the Washington Nationals. This performance also made him the oldest pitcher to start a postseason game since Jamie Moyer, who was 45 during the 2008 World Series.
In a show of commitment during his last outing, when Schneider visited the mound in the fifth inning, Scherzer firmly indicated he wanted to stay in the game, and Schneider complied. This tenacity reflects Scherzer’s competitive spirit and leadership on the mound.
Glasnow’s Role for the Dodgers
On the other side of the diamond, Dodgers right-hander Tyler Glasnow will be on the mound in Game 3. Glasnow has made two starts and one relief appearance this October, holding a solid record of 0-0 with a remarkable 0.68 ERA, having allowed only one run in 13 1/3 innings. His performance will be critical as the Dodgers seek to regain control of the series.
Adding to the Dodgers’ formidable lineup, two-way star Shohei Ohtani is slated to start Game 4 against Blue Jays right-hander Shane Bieber. Ohtani’s versatility and skills will undoubtedly pose a challenge for Toronto as the series progresses.
As the World Series intensifies, the spotlight will be on Scherzer and Glasnow, two pitchers with something to prove. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this matchup unfolds as the Blue Jays and Dodgers battle for baseball’s ultimate prize.
