The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly nearing a deal with free agent pitcher Max Scherzer
The Toronto Blue Jays appear to be closing in on a reunion with veteran right-hander Max Scherzer, as negotiations between the two sides have intensified in recent days.
While no agreement has been finalized and other teams remain in the mix for the future Hall of Famer, Toronto has reportedly accelerated its pursuit in an effort to bring the three-time Cy Young Award winner back to the Rogers Centre.
While nothing is finalized, the Blue Jays’ talks with Max Scherzer have gotten more serious in the last week per industry sources. Other clubs in mix but Blue Jays now appear to be his most serious pursuer on a possible one-year deal.
Scherzer presents lots of options for the Blue Jays heading into 2026 season
Scherzer, now 41, pitched for the Jays in 2025 after signing a one-year, $15.5 million contract last winter.
The health setbacks contributed to a 5.19 ERA — the highest of his decorated career.
Despite the inflated ERA, Scherzer’s underlying numbers suggest he remained competitive.
He struck out 22.9 percent of opposing hitters while issuing walks at a modest 6.4 percent clip.
His 10.7 percent swinging-strike rate was down roughly three percentage points from his career norm but nearly mirrored the league average of 11 percent, indicating his stuff was still capable of missing bats.
One disastrous outing heavily skewed his overall line. In his second-to-last start of the year, Scherzer allowed seven runs while recording just two outs. Outside of that appearance, he posted a 4.48 ERA across his other 16 starts.
While it’s fair to note that removing a pitcher’s worst performance can paint a more favorable picture, the broader view suggests Scherzer was serviceable for much of the campaign.
He also elevated his performance in October, logging three postseason starts with a 3.77 ERA over 14 1/3 innings.
Toronto’s rotation picture entering 2026 already features significant depth. Kevin Gausman, Dylan Cease, Trey Yesavage, José Berrios and Cody Ponce are expected to begin the season in the starting five, provided they remain healthy. However, recent developments have created some uncertainty.
The organization has characterized the move as precautionary following his return from Tommy John surgery and 88 total innings last season, including a deep postseason run.
With two rotation options sidelined in short order, it’s logical that Toronto would intensify its efforts to reinforce the staff.
Should a deal materialize, Nicholson-Smith notes the Blue Jays could bring Scherzer along gradually, potentially targeting a late April or early May debut to ensure he is fully built up for the stretch run.
