Possible return for Max Scherzer to Rangers’ starting lineup

Max Scherzer is on track to rejoin the Texas Rangers rotation after his final rehab start in the minors, according to manager Bruce Bochy. Scherzer was set to pitch for Triple-A Round Rock on Saturday night, with a limit of about 75 pitches. Bochy expressed hope that this would be Scherzer’s last minor league appearance before returning to the big leagues.

In his previous rehab start for Round Rock, Scherzer retired 12 of 14 batters, throwing 53 pitches, allowing one hit and walking one. The start was delayed due to right thumb soreness that was later identified as a nerve issue extending to his right triceps. Scherzer had back surgery in December and has yet to pitch for the Rangers this season.

Last July, the Rangers acquired Scherzer from the New York Mets in a trade where he agreed to opt in on the final year of his contract for $43.3 million. New York is paying Texas $30.83 million of that in installments. Scherzer posted a 4-2 record with a 3.20 ERA in eight starts for Texas after the trade before being sidelined by a muscle strain in his shoulder. He returned for two starts in the American League Championship Series and Game 3 of the World Series before exiting due to his back.

With 3,367 strikeouts, Scherzer ranks second among active pitchers, behind Justin Verlander who has surpassed him with 3,390 strikeouts this season for Houston. Additionally, Scherzer is second to Verlander on the active lists with 214 wins and 448 starts.