Max Scherzer has officially agreed to a two-year contract with the Atlanta Braves worth $57 million, a deal that will keep the three-time Cy Young winner in Atlanta through the 2026 season. The Braves, already boasting one of the most formidable lineups in Major League Baseball, are adding a veteran ace to their pitching staff in hopes of strengthening their rotation for a deep postseason run.
Scherzer, who turned 40 in 2024, has faced some challenges in recent years due to injuries, including a back surgery last offseason that limited him to just 43 ⅓ innings in 2024. However, the future Hall of Famer has shown that he can still be an impactful starter, posting a solid 3.95 ERA despite the limited action. In 2023, Scherzer had a 3.77 ERA in 152 2/3 innings split between the Mets and Rangers. His career numbers and past accomplishments—three Cy Young awards, over 200 wins, and nearly 3,200 strikeouts—have made him one of the most respected pitchers of his generation.
The Braves were aggressive in their pursuit of Scherzer, having sent scouts to watch his workout earlier this month. Scherzer’s performance at Cressey Sports Performance, where he showcased his health and readiness for the upcoming season, appears to have convinced the Braves that he can still be an asset to their championship aspirations.
Scherzer joins a Braves rotation that already includes ace Spencer Strider, veteran Charlie Morton, and other promising arms. His addition brings much-needed experience and a winning pedigree to a staff that is expected to contend for the National League crown in 2025 and beyond. Scherzer’s leadership and ability to perform in big moments will be invaluable as the Braves look to build on their recent success.
For Scherzer, the move to Atlanta offers the chance to play for a competitive team with a strong supporting cast. While the Braves have one of the deepest lineups in baseball, Scherzer’s presence on the mound could be the missing piece that propels them to their next World Series title. With a healthy and motivated Scherzer, the Braves have further solidified their position as one of the top contenders in the National League.