Washington Nationals Editorial: Five Most All-Star Worthy Nats
By Matt Weyrich
Jun 20, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) reacts after recording the final out of a no hitter against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Nationals Park. The Nationals won 6 – 0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Max Scherzer
While his teammate has lead the way in MVP conversations, Max Scherzer has taken a stranglehold over the Cy Young discussion. The first-year National has made his 7-year, $210 million deal almost look like an underpayment. Through the first half of the season, Scherzer has made 16 starts, going 9-6 with a 1.82 ERA, 0.775 WHIP, 139 strikeouts, and three complete games as part of a league-leading 118.2 innings.
Scherzer has made the All-Star Game in each of the past two seasons, representing the Detroit Tigers for the American League. In his Cy Young-winning 2013 season, Scherzer made the start for the AL, and followed up in 2014 earning the win in relief. This season, Max looks to be the probable starter for the National League, as he ranks in the top three among all NL starting pitchers in ERA, WHIP, wins, strikeouts, walks, and IP.
The 30-year old superstar has put up even historic numbers, putting together one of the most dominant back-to-back appearances the sport has ever seen. From June 14th through June 20th, Scherzer pitched two complete game shutouts, allowed one hit, one walk, and struck out 26 batters. He became the second player in franchise history to throw a no-hitter, following up Jordan Zimmermann’s no-no in the final game of the 2014 season.
About as unquestionable a pick as Harper, Max Scherzer is a no-doubter to make the All-Star Game, even without the fan vote. The biggest question surrounding Scherzer may just be, who wins the ASG MVP? Him or Harper?
Next: #Drooooooo