Max Scherzer is one of the most dominant right-handed pitchers in recent Major League Baseball history. Fans often ask, who did Max Scherzer play for, as his career has included moves between several high-profile teams.
Over more than a decade in the league, Scherzer built a reputation for elite velocity, pinpoint command, and intense preparation. Understanding the teams he has been part of helps explain his legacy and on-field impact.
| Team | Years with Team | Key Accolade with Team | Cy Young Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Diamondbacks | 2009–2012 | Emerging as a top starter in the NL | 0 |
| Detroit Tigers | 2013–2014 | Matched up with Justin Verlander in AL Central | 0 |
| Washington Nationals | 2015–2022 | 2019 World Series champion, multiple Cy Young wins | 2 (2016, 2017) |
| Los Angeles Dodgers | 2023 | Led rotation in a deep playoff run | 0 |
| New York Mets | 2023–2024 | Postseason starts in search of another title | 0 |
Early Career with the Arizona Diamondbacks
Scherzer reached the majors with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2010 after his college success at the University of Texas. During his time in Arizona, he showed flashes of brilliance and developed a reputation for fearlessness. He worked on refining his slider and building a solid foundation for future dominance.
Transition to the Detroit Tigers
Before the 2013 season, the Diamondbacks dealt Scherzer to the Detroit Tigers in a multi-pitcher trade. Paired with Justin Verlander in the Tigers rotation, he embraced a more rigorous preparation routine. This period refined his mental approach and exposed him to high-leverage playoff situations.
Washington Nationals Era and Championship Run
Building a Winner in the NL
Scherzer signed with the Washington Nationals before the 2015 campaign, and the move transformed his postseason narrative. He became the face of a rotation that delivered consistently in October. His leadership and performance helped elevate the Nationals to their first World Series title in 2019.
Cy Young Dominance in 2016 and 2017
In 2016 and 2017, Scherzer earned consecutive Cy Young Awards with Washington. He posted microscopic ERA numbers while striking out opposing hitters at an unprecedented rate. His meticulous approach to game preparation set a new standard for professionalism in the clubhouse.
Final Chapters with the Dodgers and Mets
In 2023, Scherzer joined the Los Angeles Dodgers midseason and provided veteran stability in a deep playoff race. The following year, he signed with the New York Mets, adding championship experience to a young rotation. With the Mets, he continued to contribute at an elite level while mentoring the next generation of pitchers.
Legacy Across Multiple Organizations
Scherzer's career demonstrates sustained excellence across different organizational cultures and baseball environments.
- Developed elite velocity and command while adapting to multiple pitching staffs
- Led both the National and American League in strikeouts at various points
- Provided postseason leadership on a World Series-winning Nationals team
- Mentored younger pitchers on veteran clubs like the Dodgers and Mets
- Continued performing at an MVP level into his mid-thirties
FAQ
Reader questions
Which team did Max Scherzer win his World Series with?
Max Scherzer won his World Series championship with the Washington Nationals in 2019.
Did Max Scherzer ever play for the Los Angeles Dodgers?
Yes, Max Scherzer played for the Los Angeles Dodgers during the 2023 season.
How many Cy Young Awards did Max Scherzer win and with which teams? Max Scherzer won two Cy Young Awards, one with the Washington Nationals in 2016 and another in 2017 while pitching for Washington. Which team did Max Scherzer play for immediately before joining the New York Mets?
Max Scherzer played for the Los Angeles Dodgers immediately before signing with the New York Mets in 2024.