Max Scherzer Set for Crucial ALCS Game 4 Start Tonight

UPDATE: Max Scherzer is ready to take the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays in a critical Game 4 of the American League Championship Series against the Seattle Mariners tonight, September 24, 2025. The veteran pitcher expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I love it. This is what you play for.”

The Blue Jays desperately need a win after dropping the first two games at home in this best-of-seven series. Scherzer, who has not pitched since September 24, is looking to turn the tide for Toronto and has made it clear he is eager to contribute in the postseason.

In a press conference, Scherzer emphasized the significance of this game, saying, “You want to have the ball in this situation. You want to be pitching in the postseason.” His experience is vital, as this will mark his 26th postseason start and 31st appearance overall.

The 41-year-old right-hander struggled during the latter part of the regular season, finishing with a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA in 17 starts. He admitted that injuries, including neck pain and previous thumb inflammation, hampered his performance. Scherzer noted, “I don’t want to sit here and go backwards and blame injuries for any way I pitched.”

Despite these challenges, Scherzer is determined to deliver. His teammate, Chris Bassitt, who recently pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings in relief, expressed confidence in Scherzer’s abilities, stating, “I expect Max to be Max, in the aspect of just go out there and execute at a very, very high level.”

Manager John Schneider confirmed that Scherzer is fit to compete, underscoring the urgency of tonight’s game. The Blue Jays are under pressure, needing to win at least two of the three games in Seattle to keep their championship hopes alive. Scherzer remarked, “We’re a great team… Yes, we lost two games. Yes, obviously these are must-win games. We all understand what’s at stake.”

As the tension builds for Game 4, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if Scherzer can reclaim his form and lead the Blue Jays back into contention. This game is not just another match; it’s a pivotal moment for Toronto’s playoff journey.