Interest Kings strike again: Red Sox reportedly took a close look at Max Scherzer
On Thursday, veteran pitcher Max Scherzer agreed to terms with the Toronto Blue Jays. The two sides finalized a one-year, $15.5 million contract, bringing the 40-year-old to the AL East – just not to Boston.
But according to reports, the Red Sox were one of multiple teams that showed interest in the future Hall of Famer before he signed with Toronto. They sent representatives to watch Scherzer throw at a recent pro day while he was still a free agent, per Pat Ragazzo on X.
Over his 17-year career, Scherzer has established himself as one of the best pitchers of his era. His career stats alone are Cooperstown-worthy: 2,878 innings pitched, a 216-112 record, a 3.16 ERA, and 3,407 strikeouts. He’s also a three-time Cy Young award winner, and a two-time World Series champion with the Nationals (2019) and Rangers (2023).
In 2024, Scherzer started in nine games with the Texas Rangers, registering a 2-4 record over 43.1 innings pitched, with a 3.95 ERA and 40 strikeouts. He missed time due to three separate injuries he suffered (Back, March; Shoulder, August; Hamstring, September). The injuries also likely contributed to the regression in ERA.
Scherzer would have been an intriguing addition to the Red Sox’ rotation — and the $15.5 million price tag would not have been a hefty sum of money — but considering his age and injury history, his availability to pitch consistently for the Sox would be in question. Nonetheless, he is now with a division rival, so it is possible the Red Sox will end up facing the legend at some point this season.
Luke Graham is a digital sports content co-op for 98.5 the Sports Hub. He is currently a sophomore communications student at Northeastern University. Follow him on X @LukeGraham05.