World Series Game 3 Preview: Scherzer Takes the Mound for Rangers
The World Series is heating up with the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks locked in a 1-1 tie as they head into Game 3. Veteran pitcher Max Scherzer is slated to start for the Rangers, marking his third World Series appearance with as many teams. The game promises to be a pivotal showdown in Arizona, where both teams will vie for a critical lead in the best-of-seven series.
Scherzer's Comeback Trail
Max Scherzer's journey to this moment has been fraught with challenges. After suffering a muscle strain in his shoulder, he was forced out of play for over a month. Despite this setback, Scherzer returned to the mound with resilience in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Houston Astros, pitching twice, including a crucial departure in Game 7 that left his team ahead.
His first start since September 12 came in Game 3 of the ALCS, where he grappled with performance, allowing five runs over four innings. This outing was uncharacteristic for the three-time Cy Young Award winner, who is known for his dominant pitching. However, Scherzer's track record speaks volumes; he has made three previous World Series starts, securing a win and a no-decision in the 2019 World Series with the Washington Nationals. With a postseason record of 7-8 and an ERA of 3.89, Scherzer remains a formidable force on the mound.
The Rangers' midseason acquisition of Scherzer from the New York Mets at the trade deadline has proven to be a strategic move as they push through the playoffs. Now, as Scherzer approaches his usual pitching capacity, the Rangers' confidence in his stamina is evident. "Yeah, I think so. He could give us length. I've talked to him about this," said the Rangers' manager, signaling confidence in Scherzer's ability to endure through the innings. "He's comfortable pretty much throwing like he normally does. Maybe not quite as long as he's been over 100 pitches, whatever, but pretty close."
Rookie Pfaadt Steps Up for Diamondbacks
On the other side, rookie Brandon Pfaadt is set to start for the Diamondbacks. Pfaadt's regular season record stood at 3-9 with a 5.72 ERA, numbers that might not leap off the page. Yet, the young pitcher has shown remarkable poise in the postseason with a 2.70 ERA, indicating his potential to rise to the occasion under pressure. Since making his major league debut on May 3, Pfaadt has been on a trajectory of growth and will now face one of his biggest tests as he takes the mound in a tied World Series.
A Critical Juncture
Game 3 is shaping up to be more than just another playoff game; it's an opportunity for either team to tip the scales in their favor. For the Rangers, placing the ball in Scherzer's hands is a testament to their belief in his experience and his recent recovery. For the Diamondbacks, entrusting Pfaadt with the start is a nod to his promising talent and postseason performances thus far.
As the series shifts to Arizona, the stakes couldn't be higher. Both teams have had a taste of victory and defeat, and now, with the series delicately balanced, the outcome of Game 3 could very well dictate the momentum for the remainder of the championship chase.
With Scherzer's veteran savvy and Pfaadt's youthful tenacity, fans are guaranteed a compelling matchup. As the World Series drama unfolds, all eyes will be on these two pitchers to see who can help their team seize the advantage in what's shaping up to be an unforgettable Fall Classic.