Aug 28, 2023; New York City, New York, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) looks on from the dugout during the second inning against the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Texas Rangers at New York Mets
NEW YORK — Former Mets ace Max Scherzer had surgery on Thursday (herniated disc), and is expected to miss a “big chunk” of the 2024 season, GM Chris Young told reporters on Friday.
The 39-year-old has dealt with a number of injuries after the Mets traded him to the Rangers for top prospect Luisangel Acuña at this years trade deadline.
“Obviously not the best news, but nonetheless, we’re glad that we have a diagnosis and a solution,” Young said. “Max is recovering and feeling better already and we look forward to getting him healthy and back out there next summer.”
Scherzer suffered a shoulder injury in September that cost him the remainder of the regular season but returned for the ALCS, posting a 9.45 ERA over 6.2 innings across two starts.
In his lone World Series start for Texas, Scherzer tossed three scoreless innings before being removed due to a back injury.
“After several conservative treatments and consulting with multiple specialists, I made the decision to have the recommended surgery,” Scherzer said. “Getting this procedure done now will give me the best chance to pitch as much as possible for the Rangers in 2024. I look forward to putting in the rehab work and getting back on the mound next summer.”
The former ace struggled before being traded, compiling a 4.01 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 107.2 innings. He was also suspended for violating the league’s sticky substance rules.
Scherzer, who exercised his player option for 2024, will make an astonishing $43.3 million in what is the final season of the three-year deal he signed with the Mets before 2022.
The Mets are paying $30.83 million of Scherzer’s salary for 2024.
