Max Scherzer Could Return for Texas Rangers as ALDS Moves to Arlington

Texas Rangers manager Bruce acknowledged using Max Scherzer as an injury replacement during the ALDS against the Baltimore Orioles.

BALTIMORE – Max Scherzer could return as the American League Division Series shifts to Arlington, according to Texas Rangers manager Bruce Bochy.

Scherzer, who is attempting to come back from a shoulder injury suffered less than a month ago, was left off the roster for the ALDS. The Rangers lead the best-of-five series 2-0 over the Baltimore Orioles after winning 11-8 Sunday at Camden Yards.

The three-time Cy Young winner threw the equivalent of two innings of live batting practice Friday during the club’s workout. Bochy said the Scherzer felt good, but wouldn’t be available for the first two games of the series.

Game 3 is Tuesday back in Arlington at Globe Life Park with Nathan Eovaldi scheduled to start for Texas. Bochy has not named a starter for Game 4 on Wednesday.

The skipper added that Scherzer would be considered as an option in case of injury in the ALDS, “depending on where he’s at.” Even though rosters are set for each series, teams are permitted to make injury replacements by petitioning the Commissioner’s Office.

“He’ll continue his throwing.” Bochy said of Scherzer.

Since he suffered a low-grade strain of his teres major muscle in his right shoulder in mid-September, the Rangers have characterized his chances of returning in the postseason as “unlikely.” The typical recovery time for an injury like this is 8-12 weeks, but the Rangers never put a timetable on Scherzer. 

Scherzer spoke briefly to reporters after his previous throwing session, with the biggest issue right now being recovery.

“I respect what I’m dealing with,” he said, according to The Dallas Morning News.

Scherzer has been adamant about wanting to return during the playoffs. He threw a bullpen session as the Rangers were sweeping the Tampa Bay Rays in the Wild Card round last  week. During that session, his performance was characterized as “finally” letting loose.

One option for Scherzer is pitching out of the bullpen as he continues to build arm strength.

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You can follow Stefan Stevenson on Twitter @StefanVersusTex.

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