Max Scherzer shuts down David Ortiz’s retirement question

The Toronto Blue Jays passed the ball Max Scherzer in Game 4 of the ALCS in hopes of building on the momentum he created on Wednesday offensive eruption. The three-time Cy Young winner managed to boast a vintage performance against the Seattle Mariners. Scherzer worked into the sixth inning, striking out five batters and allowing just two runs en route to his first postseason win since 2019.

After winning Game 4, David Ortiz asked Schecer when he would finally retire. But the 41-year-old firefighter made it clear he wasn’t ready to hang up his brakes.

“I’m having too much fun. You get to go out and play in this environment, that’s what you play the game for. It’s so much fun to be in these situations. So for me, I just enjoy the competition too much,” Scherzer told FOX Sports: MLB.

Blue Jays win Game 4 with Max Scherzer’s vintage start

Blue Jays manager John Schneider discovered Schetzer’s competitive spirit the hard way. When Schneider made a big visit in the fifth inning, a wild-eyed Scherzer made it clear he wasn’t leaving the game. A frightened Schneider let the 18-year veteran keep pitching. And Scherzer responded by striking out Randy Arozarena to end the inning.

Scherzer even picked off a runner in his return exit. The eight-time All-Star caught Leo Rivas straying too far from first base. It was Scherzer’s first pick-off since 2016 and the first postseason selection of his career.

The Blue Jays signed Schecer to a one-year deal during the offseason following an injury-plagued 2024 campaign. He missed 76 games this season with a right thumb injury. But Scherzer looked healthy and effective in Game 4 of the ALCS.

“I still feel pretty good. My body feels great, so everything is fine,” Scherzer said, via FOX Sports.

The Blue Jays fought back from an 0-2 hole to even the Championship Series on Thursday. After losing the first two games of the ALCS at home, Toronto turned things around in Seattle. The The Blue Jays blew out the Mariners in back-to-back wins, outscoring the team 21-6 on the road.

Toronto will give the ball to Kevin Gausman for Game 5 on Friday. Seattle will counter with Bryce Miller.