Blue Jays: Max Scherzer’s evolving approach is fueling his longevity in the game
The Blue Jays got 85 regular-season innings from “Mad Max” in 2025. They also received 14 1/3 postseason innings, during which he faced 58 batters, struck out 11, and allowed just six earned runs on 12 hits.
His overall performance helped the Blue Jays escape big situations and stay afloat. So, what has been his formula for continued success?
Scherzer focuses on quality over quantity
The veteran right-hander is well known around the league; there is plenty of scouting information on him. He doesn’t match the same metrics he did eight years ago, but it’s clear he still works matchups effectively.
Let’s start with his repertoire: a four-seam fastball, changeup, slider, curveball, and cutter. His fastball will always be his most-used pitch. From 2017 to 2021, he consistently averaged 94–95 mph, touching 96.
That velocity dipped slightly after 2021, with his fastball topping out around 92 mph. Recently, he has settled around 93 mph with the ability to reach higher when needed. His command has always been there, but now his location is more precise—especially on the inside part of the plate. This cuts off hitters’ swing paths and forces weaker contact, limiting damage even when barrels occur.
He also threw two innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers in a highly anticipated 2026 matchup before forearm tendinitis put him on the shelf for the day. He delivered 24 strikes on 36 pitches and recorded two strikeouts.
In the first inning, he faced Shohei Ohtani, jamming him with an 88 mph cutter that resulted in a foul out, then later inducing a lineout on a changeup. He also struck out Freddie Freeman with a 90 mph fastball on the inside half. Pitch location and sequencing are critical to his success. What he throws—and where he throws it—matters. While Scherzer no longer maintains his peak velocity, these at-bats highlight the approach that has extended his career.
His most-used off-speed pitches now are his slider and changeup, with less reliance on the cutter and curveball. The curveball remains effective, but the cutter’s movement may be diminished. The slider and changeup complement his fastball location and help vary speeds, disrupting timing and balance.
Scherzer also excels at changing eye levels. Like any pitcher, he gets hit when he makes mistakes—but otherwise, he remains locked in. He may not be the overpowering weapon he once was, but his pitching IQ, sequencing, repertoire, and execution continue to keep him effective in Major League Baseball.