Rangers Ace Max Scherzer Dominates First Start of the Season, Quietly Making History In Long-Awaited Return

Texas Rangers ace Max Scherzer made his first season start on Sunday and delivered a pitching gem, showing no signs of rust and making history in his big return. 

The three-time Cy Young winner threw for five innings, allowing one hit and recording four strikeouts (57 pitches).

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JUNE 23: Max Scherzer #31 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Kansas City Royals in the first inning  at Globe Life Field on June 23, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Scherzer, 39, recorded a no-hitter through five innings against Bobby Witt, Jr. and the Kansas City Royals, setting up a shutout 4-0 win for Texas. 

On Sunday, Mad Max made history by tying Greg Maddux on the all-time strikeouts list, reaching his 3,371st K. 

Scherzer's last appearance on the mound, heading into Sunday, was in the World Series last October. After the season, Scherzer underwent surgery to repair a herniated disc injury, which sidelined him until the Rangers activated him this week. 

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JUNE 23: Max Scherzer #31 of the Texas Rangers runs out to the mound before the game against the Kansas City Royals at Globe Life Field on June 23, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Texas manager Bruce Bochy was grateful for his ace's return. 

"I'll be honest, we weren't sure exactly where [Scherzer] was," Bochy said, via MLB.com. 

Bochy added, "I mean, he had his rehab starts, but this just makes you appreciate how good this man is. His first start back to throw that ball like that, just an incredible job he did tonight. It’s good to see him out there. The club was glad to see him out there and you just saw him competing at his finest."

The Rangers are glad to welcome Scherzer back, not playing like the same championship team. Texas sits third in the AL West at 37-40.

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