Scherzer Guides Blue Jays Rookies Ahead of Playoff Showdown

NEW YORK — Max Scherzer, the veteran pitcher, reflects on his first postseason experience as the Toronto Blue Jays prepare to face the New York Yankees in the American League Division Series. The pivotal games, set to begin Tuesday, will mark a critical moment for the Jays as they aim for a series victory.

Before his first playoff start in 2011, Scherzer recalls receiving advice that suggested he remain calm despite the intensity of the Yankee Stadium crowd. He learned early on that embracing adrenaline was essential. ‘Don’t pitch throttled down,’ he said. ‘I pitch with my hair on fire.’

Scherzer, now a seasoned pitcher in his 18th season, is not on the Jays’ roster for this series, but his presence looms large. He has taken on a mentorship role, guiding younger players and offering his hard-earned insights from playing in high-pressure games.

That debut in the Bronx was tumultuous, strictly a mix of anxiety and adrenaline. Alex Avila, Scherzer’s catcher, noted how daunting the Yankees lineup was. ‘It seemed like every one of their guys had 40 homers,’ he said. Initially faced with challenges, Scherzer settled in and ultimately delivered six shutout innings, a manifestation of performance under pressure.

As the Blue Jays prepare for Game 3, Scherzer’s advice to the team celebrates individuality. ‘I’m not trying to say I’ve figured everything out,’ he explained. ‘But you can get bad advice from teammates.’ This insight resonates with first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who maintains his focus against the pressure of the postseason.

Guerrero has thrived against the Yankees, sporting a career OPS of 1.002 at Yankee Stadium. Despite this, he insists that every game remains the same, emphasizing, ‘It’s not over. There’s a lot of work to do still.’

In terms of team health, shortstop Bo Bichette did not travel to New York due to a knee sprain, and José Berríos is also sidelined with elbow inflammation. As the series progresses, the Blue Jays look to remain resilient and capitalize on Scherzer’s mentorship.