Max Scherzer might have just played his last game in MLB, and if so, he made sure to make it memorable with a performance and a quote afterward.
Scherzer started on the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays’ final game of the 2026 MLB season, which might have also served as the last appearance of one of the best pitchers in history.
The three-time Cy Young Award winner was solid in his start, allowing just an earned run on six hits with a walk issued and seven strikeouts through seven innings of work, helping the Blue Jays secure a 5-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday at Rogers Centre in Toronto, Ontario.
During a postgame interview on the field with Sportsnet’s Hazel Mae, the future Baseball Hall of Famer shared a heartfelt message to Toronto and Blue Jays fans.
“That’s why I wanted to pitch one more time here at the Rogers Centre,” the 42-year-old Scherzer said, as fans in the loudly cheered in the background.
“You guys make it loud like that, man, that just gives me all the adrenaline in the world. I just wanted to keep out there, keep getting outs, and got the energy and was able to just keep going,” added Scherzer.
“My arm felt great. I kept telling [John Schneider], I feel great. And I just want the ball and I’m going until a runner gets on.”
"That's why I wanted to pitch one more time at the Rogers Centre … This is a hidden gem in the league. Toronto is awesome. I love playing here."
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) September 27, 2026
What a pleasure to watch you one last time this season, Max 💙
(and one last water shower!) 🚿 pic.twitter.com/EUCMmsCusG
Scherzer joined Toronto in 2025 on a 1-year, $15.5 million contract and came just a win short of winning a third World Series ring. Amid rumors of possible retirement, he decided to run it back with Toronto, signing a 1-year, $3 million deal in February.
It remains to be seen whether Scherzer has at least one more year left in the big leagues, but either way, his legacy is secured.
