Three-time Cy Young Award winner and active career strikeout leader Max Scherzer has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder fatigue. Scherzer, who has a record of 2-4 this season, has been dealing with various health issues since his season debut on June 23 following offseason back surgery and a nerve issue in his arm.
The Texas Rangers announced the move before their game against Boston, with the placement being retroactive to Wednesday. Scherzer's recent struggles, including not pitching past the fourth inning in three of his last four starts, prompted the decision to place him on the injured list.
In response to Scherzer's absence, the Rangers have recalled left-handed reliever Walter Pennington from Triple-A Round Rock. Pennington was acquired in a recent trade that sent right-hander Michael Lorenzen to Kansas City.
Scherzer, who recently celebrated his 40th birthday, achieved a milestone by surpassing Justin Verlander for 10th place on the all-time strikeout list. Despite his impressive career numbers, Scherzer's recent performance has been impacted by arm fatigue, as noted by manager Bruce Bochy.
While Scherzer initially expressed a desire to continue pitching through his fatigue, the decision was made to place him on the injured list to allow for proper rest and recovery. The earliest Scherzer could return to the rotation is August 15, creating uncertainty for the Rangers' pitching staff.
In addition to Scherzer's absence, the Rangers are also dealing with injuries to Jon Gray and the recent trade of Michael Lorenzen. Gray is sidelined with a right groin strain, while Lorenzen was traded to Kansas City before Scherzer's IL placement.
Looking ahead, the Rangers are hopeful for the return of Tyler Mahle, who could make his debut for the team after recovering from Tommy John surgery. Meanwhile, two-time Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom is progressing in his recovery from right elbow surgery and is expected to resume pitching activities soon.
Despite the challenges faced by the Rangers' pitching staff, the team remains focused on managing injuries and optimizing player performance as they navigate the remainder of the season.
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