The Toronto Blue Jays made a significant move on Thursday, officially signing future Hall of Famer Max Scherzer to a one-year, $15 million deal, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The three-time Cy Young Award winner was a sought-after free agent, with several teams, including the Boston Red Sox, attending a recent workout Scherzer held for scouts and team representatives, as reported by Sports Illustrated’s Pat Ragazzo.
Despite Boston’s interest, Scherzer ultimately chose Toronto, strengthening the Blue Jays’ rotation alongside Kevin Gausman, José Berríos, and Chris Bassitt. This marks a notable addition to a pitching staff that struggled with home run issues in 2024, having allowed the second-most home runs in baseball, and the most in the American League. Even at 40 years old, Scherzer’s experience and dominance on the mound are expected to provide a major boost for Toronto as they aim for a competitive 2025 season.
For the Red Sox, Scherzer was not an essential acquisition, given the recent efforts of chief baseball officer Craig Breslow to overhaul the pitching staff. Boston improved its bullpen with additions like Justin Wilson and Aroldis Chapman, while also acquiring starting pitchers Garrett Crochet, Walker Buehler, and Patrick Sandoval. These moves have strengthened the team’s pitching depth and made a bid for Scherzer less necessary.
Though rumors circulated that Scherzer might consider a bullpen role, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi quickly dismissed these speculations. Scherzer’s choice to join the Blue Jays solidified his commitment to starting, and he will now be part of a rotation that includes Gausman, Berríos, and Bassitt.
The Blue Jays were active this offseason, missing out on top free agents like Juan Soto, Max Fried, and Corbin Burnes, but ultimately landing outfielder Anthony Santander on a five-year deal worth $92.5 million. With Scherzer and Santander on board, Toronto is clearly aiming for a stronger 2025 campaign after two rough offseasons.
Scherzer, coming off a World Series championship with the Texas Rangers in 2023, is also looking to redeem himself in 2025. His time in Texas was plagued by injuries, including arm fatigue and nerve issues, limiting his effectiveness. In his nine starts for the Rangers in 2024, Scherzer posted a 3.95 ERA with a 2-4 record. As the Red Sox and Blue Jays prepare for a competitive 2025 season, Scherzer’s presence in Toronto will certainly add another layer of intensity to the AL East rivalry. The two teams will face off 13 times throughout the season, with a playoff spot on the line.