Three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer etched his name in baseball history on Thursday, moving into 10th place on the career strikeout list, an achievement made all the more remarkable by his status as the most active pitcher in the top 10.
Max Scherzer continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest pitchers of all time, reaching another milestone on Thursday by surpassing Justin Verlander on the career strikeout list. The Texas Rangers right-hander recorded his 3,394th strikeout in the second inning against the Chicago White Sox, moving into 10th place overall and becoming the most active pitcher among the top 10.
Scherzer's latest milestone comes just days before his 40th birthday, a remarkable testament to his longevity and consistency. The veteran pitcher has played for six different teams over his 17-year MLB career, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and now the Rangers. He has been a key contributor to two World Series titles, with the Nationals in 2019 and the Rangers in 2022.
Prior to the game, Rangers manager Bruce Bochy expressed his admiration for Scherzer's remarkable achievement, stating, "This game has been going on for a long time, and he's one of the best pitchers in the game. And the numbers show that."
Scherzer's journey to the 10th spot on the strikeout list has been marked by countless memorable performances. He has won three Cy Young Awards, including back-to-back awards with the Nationals in 2016 and 2017. Scherzer has also played a crucial role in several postseason runs, including the Nationals' 2019 World Series victory.
Scherzer's success has been built on a combination of exceptional skill and unwavering determination. He is known for his devastating fastball, which can reach speeds of up to 95 mph, as well as his sharp breaking ball. Scherzer's relentless work ethic and commitment to his craft have allowed him to maintain a high level of performance throughout his career.
Scherzer's latest milestone places him in elite company, alongside legendary pitchers such as Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, and Pedro Martinez. His achievement is a testament to his remarkable talent and his enduring legacy in the sport of baseball.
As Scherzer continues his journey, he remains a force to be reckoned with on the mound. His experience, skill, and determination make him a formidable opponent for any batter. With each start, Scherzer inches closer to even greater heights in the annals of baseball history.
