Max Scherzer gave up three home runs as the Toronto Blue Jays dropped the series opener against the Cleveland Guardians on Friday night, falling 6-3 at Rogers Centre. The veteran right-hander, who signed with Toronto in the offseason, lasted just 3 1/3 innings, surrendering six runs on seven hits while striking out four and walking two.
Scherzer's Rough Outing
Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, struggled from the start. Guardians leadoff hitter Steven Kwan launched a solo home run to right field on the second pitch of the game. Cleveland added two more runs in the second inning on a two-run blast by Josh Naylor. In the third, Jose Ramirez crushed a two-run homer to deep center field, putting the Guardians ahead 5-0. Scherzer was pulled after allowing a double and a walk in the fourth inning.
Blue Jays Offense Stalls
Toronto's offense managed only three runs on eight hits. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. drove in a run with a double in the fourth inning, and George Springer hit a two-run homer in the seventh, but it was not enough to overcome the early deficit. Guardians starter Triston McKenzie earned the win, pitching six innings of two-run ball with eight strikeouts.
Postgame Reactions
Blue Jays manager John Schneider said after the game, "Max didn't have his best stuff tonight. He left some pitches over the plate and they made him pay. We'll bounce back tomorrow." Scherzer added, "I need to be better. I let the team down, but I'll keep working."
The loss drops Toronto to 12-10 on the season, while Cleveland improves to 14-8. The two teams continue their three-game series on Saturday.
