Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer climbed to the ninth spot on the all-time strikeout list during Sunday’s game, surpassing Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, achieved this milestone by striking out Cal Raleigh of the Seattle Mariners for his 3,535th career strikeout in the seventh inning.
The crowd of 42,039 erupted in a standing ovation as Scherzer’s accomplishment was displayed on the scoreboard. Expressing gratitude, Scherzer acknowledged the significance of moving up in the top 10 all-time strikeout list and appreciated the support from his teammates and fans.
This game marked a season-high for Scherzer with 10 strikeouts, his first time reaching double-digit strikeouts this season and the 115th time in his career. He pitched seven innings, allowing only one hit, and secured his first win since the season opener on March 31 against the Colorado Rockies. Scherzer threw 97 pitches, with an impressive 67 strikes.
In a remarkable feat, Scherzer, at the age of 42, became only the third pitcher in MLB history aged 42 or older to pitch seven or more innings, strike out 10 or more batters, and allow two or fewer baserunners. Notably, this achievement has only been accomplished twice before in MLB history by Nolan Ryan.
Manager John Schneider praised Scherzer’s performance as “vintage Max,” highlighting his exceptional pitching from the start of the game. Scherzer struck out the side in the first inning and continued his dominant display throughout the game.
Scherzer’s journey up the all-time strikeout list also saw him surpass Walter Johnson earlier this month, moving into the 10th spot. His former teammate Justin Verlander currently holds the eighth spot, making him the only other active pitcher in the top 10.
Originally drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2006, Scherzer is an eight-time All-Star and a two-time World Series champion. Throughout his career, he has showcased his talent with various teams, including the Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and Texas Rangers.
