Max Scherzer has no intention of stepping away from the game just yet. The three-time Cy Young Award winner, who battled through an injury-riddled 2023 season (Braves battled the same thing this past season), is determined to keep pitching through 2025.
“When I’m out there, I’ve been able to compete,” Scherzer recently shared with the Dallas Morning News. “I can still pitch at a high level.” With those words, it seems like the offseason is about to get even more interesting—especially for teams looking to bolster their pitching staff, like the Atlanta Braves.
Why the Braves Should Consider Max Scherzer
On paper, Max Scherzer is still the type of player every team would dream of having. Despite some recent health setbacks, his resume speaks for itself: over 3,400 strikeouts (10th all-time), a career 3.16 ERA, and 1.07 WHIP across 17 seasons.
Even at 40 years old, Scherzer brings valuable experience and an unyielding competitive spirit. Remember, this is the guy who pitched Game 7 of the World Series while dealing with a neck injury. That type of toughness and grit could be a game-changer for any clubhouse.
Adding Scherzer could help address one of the Braves ongoing concerns of rotation depth. Despite boasting some incredible talent on the mound, Atlanta has been battling injuries regularly. While they have young arms coming through their farm system, many won’t be ready for a full-time role in 2025. This is where Scherzer could slot in perfectly.
As a veteran with an impressive arsenal, he could provide immediate stability. His pitches range from a four-seam fastball he’s not afraid to challenge hitters with to a nasty slider and curveball. Plus, Scherzer could take over that role as the elder statesman of the rotation with Charlie Morton hitting free agency.
A Perfect Fit for Atlanta’s Pitching Philosophy
One thing the Braves do exceptionally well is reviving the careers of veteran pitchers. If they can turn 40-year-old Jesse Chavez into a reliable bullpen arm, there’s no telling what they could do with Scherzer in a starting role.
Scherzer may not be in his prime anymore, but the Braves have the magic touch when it comes to making the most of their pitching talent. Case in point: Chris Sale. Sale’s acquisition was seen as risky, but by 2024, he was looking like a steal. That same rejuvenating effect could happen with Scherzer, who still has plenty left in the tank when healthy.
Mentorship As An Added Bonus
Scherzer’s value wouldn’t just be on the mound, his experience and leadership could be invaluable for Atlanta’s young pitchers. Imagine being a rising star in the Braves organization and learning from one of the greatest pitchers of this generation. Having Scherzer in the clubhouse and mentoring young arms could have a lasting impact on the organization. His presence alone could elevate the next wave of Atlanta’s pitching talent.
What Could Hold the Braves Back?
While Scherzer’s experience and talent are enticing, the financial aspect could be a sticking point. After earning a whopping $43 million annually during his contract with the Mets and Rangers, Scherzer will undoubtedly command a significant salary, even though he’s unlikely to see numbers quite that high again.
If he’s looking for something in the $25 million range, the Braves might have to pause. Atlanta is already close to hitting the luxury tax threshold and has its own priority in re-signing Max Fried, who becomes a free agent this offseason. Fried, at 30, is in his prime and would be the long-term ace the Braves need to lock down.
The ideal scenario for the Braves? Re-signing Fried while also convincing Scherzer to take a team-friendly deal. That way, they maintain their future core while adding a Hall of Fame-bound pitcher to help secure another World Series run.
Max Scherzer’s potential free agency offers a tantalizing opportunity for the Braves. His combination of talent, experience, and leadership would make him a valuable asset in Atlanta’s rotation—if the numbers work out. The question is whether the Braves can balance their budget while addressing their future needs.
If they can manage to bring Max Scherzer into the fold while retaining key players like Fried, it would be yet another brilliant move by Alex Anthopoulos and the Atlanta front office.
