Max Scherzer, a name synonymous with pitching dominance, is playing a waiting game. But the burning question on every Detroit Tigers fan's mind is: Could a reunion be in the cards? While it might seem like a long shot, let's delve into why the possibility, however slim, exists.
As of January 23, 2026, the veteran right-hander remains a free agent, and according to baseball insider Ken Rosenthal, Scherzer is prepared to be patient. He's willing to wait until after Opening Day to ink a deal, a rather unconventional approach in the world of baseball free agency.
Scherzer has stated that he's healthy and ready to pitch, but he's prioritizing joining a team with serious World Series aspirations. He's looking for a contender, and he's willing to bide his time to find the right fit. This is where things get interesting for Tigers fans.
On the surface, the Tigers' current situation might not scream "Scherzer's next team!" They're projected to start the season with a rotation featuring Tarik Skubal, Jack Flaherty, Casey Mize, Reese Olson, and Drew Anderson. Troy Melton looms as a potential swingman or sixth starter down in Toledo. So, barring any unforeseen injuries, the Tigers don't appear to have an immediate, glaring need for another starting pitcher as the season kicks off. But here's where it gets controversial...
But as baseball seasons notoriously demonstrate, pitching depth is a fickle thing. It can vanish in an instant due to injuries, underperformance, or simple fatigue. Remember last season? Teams can never have too many reliable arms. If the Tigers find themselves needing reinforcements later in the season – say, in May or June – adding a veteran like Scherzer could be a shrewd move. It would allow them to bolster their rotation without committing to a long-term contract or a hefty salary in March when the perceived need is less pressing. It's a lower-risk, potentially high-reward scenario.
This strategy of veterans waiting for the right opportunity isn't unheard of. Baseball lore is filled with examples. Roger Clemens, in his final comeback, famously waited before joining the New York Yankees. More recently, David Robertson signed with the Philadelphia Phillies mid-season to bolster their bullpen. And this is the part most people miss...
Rosenthal has mentioned several playoff-caliber teams as potential landing spots for Scherzer, including the Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, and Phillies. But the Tigers, who have made the playoffs the past two seasons, shouldn't be completely discounted. Their playoff contention, coupled with Scherzer's history in Detroit, is a key factor. He won his first Cy Young Award wearing the Old English "D," and that connection could tug at his heartstrings.
Scherzer isn't the only former Tigers ace and future Hall of Famer still available. Justin Verlander also remains unsigned. While there's no specific indication that Verlander is considering a post-Opening Day signing, it's not entirely off the table either. Imagine the buzz if both returned!
Financially, however, a reunion with either pitcher presents a challenge. Verlander earned $15 million last season, while Scherzer made $15.5 million. Those are significant figures, and the Tigers might be hesitant to commit that kind of money, especially after their experience with Alex Cobb in 2025. Cobb signed for $15 million but didn't throw a single pitch due to injury, a harsh reminder of the risks involved. Furthermore, with Verlander turning 43 and Scherzer turning 42, their ability to command similar salaries in 2026 is uncertain.
Scherzer's time with the Tigers, from 2010 to 2014, was a golden era. He went 82-35 with a 3.52 ERA, forming part of one of the most dominant rotations in baseball. During his tenure, the Tigers reached the playoffs four times, including a memorable American League pennant run in 2012.
After leaving Detroit, Scherzer signed a lucrative seven-year, $210 million contract with the Washington Nationals. It proved to be a fantastic investment for Washington, as they made the postseason three times and captured the 2019 World Series with Scherzer leading the charge. He later signed a three-year, $130 million deal with the Mets before being traded to the Rangers in 2023, where he added another World Series ring to his impressive resume.
The 2024 season was a mixed bag for Scherzer. Injuries limited him to just nine starts, but he still managed to secure a one-year, $15.5 million deal with the Blue Jays for the 2025 season. His regular-season ERA was a less-than-stellar 5.17, but he delivered in the playoffs, making three crucial starts, including Games 3 and 7 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
So, could Max Scherzer return to Detroit? The answer is complex. The Tigers' potential need for pitching depth later in the season, Scherzer's desire to contend, and his history with the organization all create a scenario where a reunion, while not guaranteed, is at least plausible. But is it the right move for the Tigers? Would his age and potential salary outweigh the benefits he could bring to the team? This is where opinions might differ. What do you think? Should the Tigers pursue Scherzer if the opportunity arises later in the season? Or should they focus on developing their existing talent? Let your voice be heard in the comments below!
