Max Scherzer Doesn't Plan to Retire from MLB After Blue Jays' World Series Loss

Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Max Scherzer doesn't see retirement in his immediate future after wrapping up his 18th MLB season.

Asked about his status for 2026 after Toronto's Game 7 loss in the World Series, the three-time Cy Young winner said he'll "give a full answer on that later." He added that he doesn't expect Saturday night to be his last time on the mound.

Scherzer did his part in the winner-take-all battle. He logged 4.1 innings and allowed one earned run on four hits and struck out three.

Chris Bassitt, Trey Yesavage and Jeff Hoffman each surrendered a run, though, and Will Smith's home run off Shane Bieber in the 11th lifted the Los Angeles Dodgers over the top.

After such an emotional game, it's easy to see why Scherzer couldn't picture walking away from baseball. His perspective might evolve in the coming weeks, especially once he contemplates all of the offseason work that's required to be physically ready for Opening Day.

The 41-year-old, who's heading into free agency, also needs a team to give him a shot.

Scherzer's reputation will only go so far at this stage of his career. He experienced right thumb inflammation in his Toronto debut and was sidelined until June. In 17 starts, he posted his worst-ever ERA (5.19) and FIP (4.99).

The right-hander rode his luck a bit in the playoffs as well. He finished the 2025 postseason with a 3.77 ERA but had a 5.58 FIP. He allowed 12 hits in 14.1 innings and had a 1.83 strikeout-to-walk ratio.

Scherzer isn't exactly fending off Father Time.

Chris Sale is the only bona fide ace hitting the open market, but he'll turn 37 in March. In general, teams might be wary of handing out too many big contracts to pitchers this winter.

Because of that, a general manager might feel a one-year flier on Scherzer is a worthwhile investment. It won't come as a shock if the future Hall of Famer did in fact throw his last MLB pitch, though.