Max Scherzer Impresses in Spring Debut, Blue Jays Optimistic for 2026 Season

CLEARWATER, Fla. – Max Scherzer showcased a strong performance in his first start of Spring Training on March 7, 2026, throwing four no-hit innings against the Philadelphia Phillies in a 1-0 Blue Jays victory. Sportsnet reported the outing as a positive sign for the veteran pitcher’s readiness for the upcoming season.

Scherzer’s Velocity and Command

During his start, Scherzer consistently hit 94-96 mph with his fastball, a velocity he only reached once during Spring Training in 2025. Reddit user Zwelling reported that Blue Jays manager John Schneider and pitching coach Pete Walker were “pleasantly surprised” with Scherzer’s stuff in side sessions leading up to the game.

Pre-Game Discussions and Routine

Schneider noted that conversations with Scherzer, a near-daily occurrence during the Blue Jays’ 2025 World Series run, resumed immediately upon Scherzer’s arrival in camp. These discussions cover baseball minutiae and often involve outfielder Myles Straw and pitching coach Pete Walker. Sportsnet highlighted the unpredictable nature of these conversations, stating, “You never really know where it’s going to go.”

Ramping Up Gradually

Scherzer himself expressed a desire to ramp up gradually, stating he doesn’t feel the need to throw hard early in spring. He told Schneider and Walker that young pitchers often exhibit higher velocities at this stage of spring training. Despite this, Scherzer reached 96 mph in his first inning, prompting a joking reaction from Walker and Schneider. Schneider commented, “I wasn’t expecting that… He looked like him – just in control of what he was doing.”

Looking Ahead

Scherzer acknowledged the positive outing, stating, “Checked a lot of boxes today. I feel good, and I’m looking forward to my next one.” The Blue Jays are optimistic that a healthy Scherzer can elevate the team’s ceiling, particularly after he found a solution for a thumb issue that impacted his performance in 2025. Sportsnet noted that the team believes Scherzer, when healthy, can significantly improve the rotation.

The Importance of Scherzer’s Health

The Blue Jays are keenly aware of the need for Scherzer to remain healthy. His routine-oriented nature makes a potential transition to a bullpen role less appealing, raising the stakes for his success as a starting pitcher. The team is focused on allowing Scherzer to refine his pitches, particularly his slider and changeup, without the hindrance of his previous thumb injury.