The Texas Rangers confirmed earlier this week that their ace, Max Scherzer, will miss the start of the 2024 MLB season. According to the reigning World Series champions, the veteran right-hander had surgery to resolve an issue with a herniated disc.
Scherzer detailed his decision to have the surgery in a statement shared by the Rangers. According to the 39-year-old player, he was diagnosed with a herniated disc after experiencing discomfort in his back early in the offseason. After having “several conservative treatments” and “consulting with multiple specialists,” it became clear that the procedure was the best option.
“Getting this procedure done now will give me the best chance to pitch as much as possible for the Rangers in 2024. I look forward to putting in the rehab work and getting back on the mound next summer,” Scherzer added.
Scherzer’s absence leaves the Rangers’ rotation severely undermanned for the start of the 2024 campaign. The team is also expected to be without two-time NL Cy Young Award Jacob deGrom and free-agent signing Tyler Mahle, who are both recovering from respective Tommy John surgeries.
Max Scherzer joined the Texans ahead of MLB trade deadline in a blockbuster trade with the New York Mets. Scherzer went 4-2 in eight starts, posting a 3.20 ERA and 54 strikeouts, before being shut down for the regular season due to a shoulder injury. He ended up returning in the postseason, making two starts before being shut once again due to back tightness.
