Max Scherzer Contemplates MLB Retirement After Blue Jays Exit

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer said he has not yet decided whether his upcoming start against the Cincinnati Reds will be his last in Major League Baseball. The 42‑year‑old, who has battled injuries this season, plans to make a decision about the next year during the offseason while weighin…

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 26 Sep 2026 22:56:21 GMT

Max Scherzer, the veteran left‑hander who has been a dominant force in Major League Baseball for nearly two decades, is facing a pivotal moment in his career. With the Toronto Blue Jays out of playoff contention and the 2026 season drawing to a close, Scherzer announced that he has not yet decided whether his scheduled Saturday start against the Cincinnati Reds will be his final appearance in the majors.

Season‑End Decision

During a press conference on Saturday, Scherzer told reporters that he will determine his future for the 2027 season later in the offseason. "The only thing I'll say about my future here is I'm going to make this decision about playing next year later in the offseason," he said. The game against the Reds, set for Sunday, will be the Blue Jays’ last outing of the season after they were eliminated from postseason contention earlier in the year.

He added that he has been eyeing the game for a couple of weeks, hoping to pitch in front of his children who were unable to travel to Baltimore for his most recent start against the Orioles. "Just want to go out there and pitch tomorrow knowing that, hey, you never know, it could be my last," Scherzer said, underscoring the emotional weight of the upcoming outing.

Career Highlights and Current Health

At 42, Scherzer is in the twilight of a career that has seen him earn three Cy Young Awards and two World Series championships—one with the Washington Nationals and one with the Texas Rangers. The 18th start of the 2026 season for the Blue Jays, he entered the game with a career‑high 6.14 earned run average and a 1.365 walk‑plus‑hits per inning pitched (WHIP) over 77.2 innings.

In Toronto, Scherzer has dealt with a series of injuries, including thumb problems during his first season with the Jays, and right forearm tendinitis, left ankle inflammation, and back spasms in his second season. Despite these setbacks, he reported feeling healthier heading into the offseason. "I've gone through ups and downs through this season, I get it, but I've gotten to this point where I'm pretty healthy," he said.

Uncertainty in a Changing Landscape

While Scherzer feels physically ready, he cited the impending expiration of Major League Baseball’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) as a factor keeping his future uncertain. The league’s labor negotiations could influence free‑agency dynamics, contract structures, and the overall stability of player careers.

"I've talked to everybody in my inner circle, and we all kind of feel the same way: We don't need to make a decision today. Get to the offseason, and just see how things unfold," Scherzer explained. He emphasized that the decision will be made after a full assessment of his health, the Blue Jays’ direction, and the broader labor environment.

What’s Next for Scherzer and the Blue Jays?

The Blue Jays’ season will conclude with the Reds matchup, marking the end of a campaign that saw the team fall short of the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Scherzer’s performance in the final game will cap a 19‑year MLB tenure that has seen him pitch for the Nationals, the Detroit Tigers, the Washington Nationals again, the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the New York Yankees, the Houston Astros, the Washington Nationals, the Detroit Tigers, the Texas Rangers, and now the Toronto Blue Jays.

For Scherzer, the next steps hinge on a combination of personal health, team ambitions, and the evolving labor landscape. Whether he chooses to return for 2027, explore free agency, or retire from the sport remains to be seen, but the decision will undoubtedly shape the final chapter of his storied career.

Legacy and Impact

Beyond the numbers, Scherzer’s influence on the mound and his reputation as a fierce competitor have left an indelible mark on the game. His potential retirement would close a chapter that has inspired younger pitchers and captivated fans across the country.

As the Blue Jays prepare for their final game of the season, the spotlight will be on Scherzer’s performance and the announcement that could signal the end of an era for one of baseball’s most recognizable figures.

Key facts

• Scherzer undecided on retirement after upcoming Reds game
• Decision to be made during 2027 offseason
• Health improving but CBA adds uncertainty
• Blue Jays out of playoffs, season ends vs. Reds
• Career: 19 years, 3 Cy Young Awards, 2 World Series titles

Why it matters

Scherzer’s potential retirement marks the end of a significant era in MLB, affecting team dynamics, fan engagement, and the broader narrative of veteran longevity in professional sports.

Frequently asked questions

What is the current status of Scherzer’s health?

He reports feeling healthier than earlier in the season, but still has not ruled out retirement.

How does the CBA affect Scherzer’s decision?

The upcoming expiration could influence contract terms and free‑agency dynamics, adding uncertainty to his future.

Will the Blue Jays offer Scherzer a contract extension?

The team has not announced any extension; the decision will be made after the season concludes.

What are Scherzer’s career highlights?

Three Cy Young Awards, two World Series championships, and a 19‑year MLB career.

Sources

• [1] bleacherreport.com — originally reported as “Max Scherzer Addresses MLB Retirement Ahead of Final Start After Blue Jays Miss 2026 Playoffs”