Is Max Scherzer Getting Close? Texas Rangers Ace Took Big Step Wednesday

Texas Rangers injured ace Max Scherzer threw a more intense bullpen session before Wednesday's Wild Card game at Tropicana Field.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Max Scherzer threw his second bullpen session before the Texas Rangers' Wild Card Game 2 against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday afternoon at Tropicana Field.

According to the Dallas Morning News, Scherzer was elated that he was "finally" able to ramp up his throwing since going on the injured list with a low-grade strain of his teres major muscle in his right shoulder in mid-September.

Scherzer threw a light bullpen session last week, the first significant action since the injury occurred on Sept. 12.

“Last week was a light bullpen, this one was real,” Scherzer told the paper. “I was able to step on it more. And it was pain-free.”

He'll evaluate how his shoulder responds in the wake of Tuesday's more intense throwing session. Scherzer said the pain was "amplified" after his session last week.

It remains unlikely Scherzer would be activated in time for an ALDS against the Baltimore Orioles should the Rangers advance past the Wild Card.

With the Rangers bullpen struggles and lack of pitching depth, perhaps Scherzer could be used in relief appearances if Texas reached the ALCS or World Series.

Scherzer was 4-2 with a 3.20 ERA and 53 strikeouts in 45 innings since joining the Rangers via a trade on Aug. 1.

The Rangers are going for a sweep of the Rays on Wednesday afternoon after taking Game 1 4-0 on Tuesday at Tropicana Field. 

Scherzer is 7-7 with one save in 27 postseason appearances, with a 3.58 ERA and 164 strikeouts in 133 1/3 innings.

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You can follow Stefan Stevenson on Twitter @StefanVersusTex.

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