Max Scherzer Shares Tips for Conquering Yankee Stadium in October Plus Key Blue Jays Insights
Max Scherzer’s Playoff Pep Talk: Embrace the Adrenaline
Max Scherzer’s Unexpected Lesson at Yankee Stadium
NEW YORK — Long before Max Scherzer became a seasoned veteran with an impressive postseason career, he learned a crucial lesson at a packed Yankee Stadium. Ahead of his first playoff start with the Detroit Tigers, Scherzer received advice to stay calm. However, it proved counterproductive. In reflecting on that day, Scherzer now advises fellow players to harness their natural energy, whether it’s adrenaline or a calm demeanor.
Scherzer’s Role with the Toronto Blue Jays
Although Max Scherzer isn’t on the Toronto Blue Jays’ active roster for the current American League Division Series, his experience and insight remain invaluable. His current contribution is as an assistant pitching coach, guiding younger players through the high-stakes environment of postseason play. Scherzer’s key advice is to remain true to one’s natural playing style—to either use adrenaline or maintain calm, according to personal inclinations.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Approach Against the Yankees
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the Blue Jays’ first baseman, remains a focal point of discussion whenever facing the New York Yankees. Despite his past comments about the Yankees being an easier opponent, Guerrero remains focused and neutral this postseason. With three notable performances in the Division Series games, Guerrero continues to impress, but he maintains that playing the Yankees is no different from facing any other team.
Injury Updates: Bo Bichette and José Berríos
Bo Bichette has not traveled with the team to New York as he continues to recover from a knee sprain incurred on September 6. Manager John Schneider noted Bichette is “still progressing,” although he has not yet started running or hitting at live speeds. The upcoming American League Championship Series offers a potential return window of six days if the Blue Jays advance.
Similarly, José Berríos is still sidelined due to elbow inflammation from the season’s last week. Although his return this season is not entirely ruled out, it seems unlikely considering the current rotation dynamics, which include experienced pitchers like Chris Bassitt and Max Scherzer not currently on the Division Series roster.
As the Blue Jays inch closer to the ALCS, the team continues to adjust its strategies, making optimal use of its roster depth while benefiting from the veteran wisdom of stars like Scherzer.
