Blue Jays' Max Scherzer Cleared for Saturday Start Despite Forearm, Thumb Issues

Max Scherzer, the 40-year-old pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays, is cleared to start Saturday's game against the Angels despite dealing with right thumb fatigue and forearm tightness. Scherzer experienced these issues during his recent start versus the Yankees, where he threw only 71 pitches over five innings, but he successfully completed a bullpen session without problems ahead of the next game. The thumb fatigue is a lingering problem since 2023, causing Scherzer to manage his workload carefully and raising uncertainty about his future beyond this season. He described his condition as unpredictable, with the thumb soreness being a critical concern that could potentially end his career. Manager John Schneider and Scherzer himself indicated that while he is able to pitch through pain, the thumb remains a key source of soreness and requires ongoing monitoring. Despite these challenges, Scherzer's performance still shows signs of his usual effectiveness, striking out seven batters in his last outing.