Future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer has made it clear he isn't ready to hang up his cleats just yet. Despite a heartbreaking Game 7 World Series loss with the Toronto Blue Jays, the legendary pitcher confirmed his intention to continue playing in the 2026 season.
Scherzer's Future Plans and Health Update
In an interview with Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic and Fox Sports, Scherzer expressed his desire to keep competing at the highest level. The 41-year-old right-hander, who will turn 42 next July, stated unequivocally, "I still can do this." When asked about his plans for the upcoming season, Scherzer noted that the World Series defeat remains "so fresh in my mind" and that it's difficult to think about free agency while still processing the emotional ending to Toronto's championship run.
Scherzer provided encouraging news about the thumb injury that plagued him during the regular season and recent campaigns. "The way I see it, I'm healthy," he told Rosenthal. "I'm going to be able to go into spring training. I'm going to be able to ramp up. I have a track record of being a durable starter." The pitcher emphasized that his thumb issue appears to be completely resolved, putting him in a much better position to navigate a full season.
Reflections on Toronto and Playoff Experience
The Scherzer family developed a strong connection to Toronto during their time with the Blue Jays. Scherzer's wife, Erica, wrote glowingly about their experience, calling it the most impactful of his 18 MLB seasons. "Toronto, our family fell in love with your beauty, culture and people," she shared after the season ended. "Playing for an entire country is truly special."
Scherzer also addressed being left off Toronto's roster early in the playoffs against the New York Yankees. "Of course I was upset," he admitted, though he understood the decision. Looking back, he now believes "everything worked the way it needed to work. I needed to get healthy. I needed to get right so I could be the best version of myself."
What's Next for the Veteran Ace?
A return to the Blue Jays remains possible, but other suitors could emerge. Rosenthal noted that some baseball executives believe Scherzer might join the San Francisco Giants, where Tony Vitello, his college pitching coach, recently became manager. The Giants also employed Scherzer's former teammate Justin Verlander last season.
Scherzer described his Game 7 World Series start against Los Angeles as "way up there" among his proudest baseball moments, despite the ultimate loss. "The last Game 7 I threw was arguably one of the most important games of my life, winning that first Series ring," he reflected. "This one, to be pitching again, and what that game meant to the Blue Jays and all the fans in Canada — obviously, it's a different outcome, but it's also a game I don't think anybody is ever going to forget."
With his health concerns behind him, Scherzer's goals remain clear: "I want to still compete and compete for a World Series. I want to continue my career and play in 2026." The three-time Cy Young Award winner made several strong starts for Toronto during their postseason run after battling injuries throughout the regular season.
