Scherzer Returns to Toronto: What It Means for the MLB Pitching Market
Late on Wednesday, the Toronto Blue Jays solidified their starting rotation by re-signing veteran Max Scherzer to a one-year, $3 million contract with $7 million in incentives. This move comes after Scherzer previously helped the Blue Jays reach their first World Series since 1993, even starting Game 7 before a bullpen collapse. Now, the defending American League champions are poised for another World Series run.
A Shrinking Pool of Available Pitchers
The free agent market has been unusually slow this winter, particularly for starting pitchers. With Scherzer back in Toronto, the options remaining for teams seeking pitching help are dwindling. The market now centers around who will be the next domino to fall, and whether teams will turn to the trade route to fill their needs.
Currently, a few mid-to-lower tier options remain, including Zack Littell, Patrick Corbin, Nestor Cortes, Jon Gray, and Marcus Stroman. However, the most attractive remaining pitcher is right-hander Lucas Giolito.
Giolito: The Top Remaining Option
Giolito, who had a strong bounce-back year with the Boston Red Sox in 2025, going 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA in 26 starts, has emerged as the most sought-after free agent pitcher. Two teams, in particular, appear to be strong contenders for his services: the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Atlanta Braves.
Arizona is facing a significant pitching shortage. Corbin Burnes is recovering from Tommy John surgery, and Merrill Kelly is sidelined with intercostal nerve irritation, ruling him out for Opening Day. Atlanta, meanwhile, is dealing with elbow injuries to both Hurston Waldrep and Spencer Schwellenbach, creating a require for experienced pitching depth.
The Trade Market as an Alternative
The situation is fluid, and other teams may enter the fray depending on their own injury situations. However, with Scherzer returning to the Blue Jays, Giolito is undeniably the best starting pitcher still available in free agency. Teams also have the option of exploring the trade market to address their pitching needs.
For teams seeking a free agent starter, Giolito may represent their best – and perhaps only – realistic opportunity. Scherzer’s return to Toronto sets the stage for a competitive season, but other teams are still actively searching for pitching solutions with limited options remaining.
It will be intriguing to observe how the pitching market evolves, but if a team wants to add a starter via free agency, signing Giolito is likely the most viable path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Max Scherzer’s novel contract worth?
A: Max Scherzer signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Toronto Blue Jays, with an additional $7 million in potential incentives.
Q: Who is the best starting pitcher still available in free agency?
A: Lucas Giolito is currently considered the best starting pitcher remaining on the free agent market.
Q: Which teams are most likely to sign Lucas Giolito?
A: The Arizona Diamondbacks and the Atlanta Braves are both considered strong contenders for Lucas Giolito’s services due to pitching injuries on their rosters.
Q: Are there any other options for teams needing pitching help?
A: Teams can also explore the trade market to acquire pitching, but the free agent pool is significantly diminished.
Stay tuned for further updates on the MLB free agency market.
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