Key facts
- Max Scherzer achieved his 3,500th career strikeout on Wednesday night.
- He is the 11th pitcher in MLB history to reach this milestone.
- Scherzer was activated from the 15-day injured list before the game.
- He had not pitched since April 24 due to forearm and ankle inflammation.
Max Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, reached a significant career milestone by recording his 3,500th strikeout on Wednesday night. The Toronto pitcher achieved this feat against Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber, becoming the 11th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to reach 3,500 strikeouts.
Scherzer, an eight-time All-Star, accomplished the milestone shortly after being activated from the 15-day injured list, where he had been sidelined with right forearm tendinitis and left ankle inflammation. His last start was on April 24, when he allowed seven runs in 2 1/3 innings against Cleveland. Prior to his return, right-hander Connor Seabold was designated for assignment.
Scherzer's former teammate Justin Verlander, with 3,554 strikeouts, is the only other active pitcher to have surpassed the 3,500 mark. Walter Johnson ranks 10th on the all-time list with 3,509 strikeouts. Despite reaching the milestone, Scherzer later allowed a home run to Bryce Harper. He has given up eight home runs this season and has only completed three innings twice in his five starts.