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Max Scherzer's health will be crucial for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025, but the veteran pitcher is already facing a concerning issue just over a week before Opening Day.
Scherzer had his spring training start delayed due to right thumb soreness. Speaking to reporters on Monday, the 40-year-old revealed that this injury has been a recurring issue for him since 2023.
Max Scherzer: "My Thumb Hurts"
"My thumb hurts. It hurts to grip the ball," Scherzer said, as reported by Keegan Matheson of MLB.com. "The critical thing I've learned over the years is that your thumb is absolutely critical to your arm health. Unfortunately, this is what I've been dealing with since 2023."
Scherzer pitched a simulated game on Monday at the team's complex but has struggled with recovery after throwing. The team will monitor how his thumb responds to the simulated game over the next couple of days. If it doesn't improve, his availability for Opening Day could be in jeopardy.
Scherzer highlighted the risks of pitching with a thumb injury, noting it could lead to further issues, such as shoulder problems.
The three-time Cy Young winner hasn't sured 153 innings in a season since 2021 and made only nine starts in 2024 for the Texas Rangers. Last season, in 43 1/3 innings, Scherzer posted a 3.95 ERA with 40 strikeouts and 10 walks.
This injury could significantly impact Scherzer's readiness for the Blue Jays' 2025 season.