Scherzer Enters Top 10 All-Time Strikeout List
AI-generated image · US National Wire
Max Scherzer passes Walter Johnson to claim a spot among the most prolific strikeout pitchers in MLB history.
Max Scherzer reached a historic milestone during Saturday night's victory for the Blue Jays over the Phillies, as CBS Sports first reported. By striking out Kyle Schwarber, Scherzer recorded the 3,516th strikeout of his career, according to CBS Sports. This achievement moves Scherzer into the top 10 all-time in MLB history, surpassing Walter Johnson.
Following the game, Scherzer noted via MLB.com that being part of a group containing such "big-time names" is special. Blue Jays manager John Schneider added that Scherzer has joined "elite company" by reaching the 10th spot on the list.
Scherzer currently trails Gaylord Perry by 18 strikeouts and Don Sutton by 58. CBS Sports reports that if Scherzer remains healthy in the rotation, he could potentially finish the season ranked seventh or eighth all-time, though Justin Verlander remains a moving target as he works toward returning to the mound.
Beyond the strikeout rankings, Scherzer's career resume includes three Cy Young Awards and a 222-121 record. He is currently one inning away from reaching 3,000 career innings pitched. According to the JAWS system cited by CBS Sports, Scherzer ranks 27th all-time among starting pitchers, placing him ahead of legends such as Nolan Ryan, Roy Halladay, Ed Walsh, and Carl Hubbell, while sitting near contemporaries like Zack Greinke, Clayton Kershaw, and Verlander.