Washington Nationals: 5 reasons why they lose the NLDS
By Ron Juckett
WHITHER SCHERZER
Are you buying Max Scherzer had a hamstring cramp Saturday? You should not.
When his cleats caught on the mound after a pitch, the biggest concern was a potential tear. Why else would he undergo an immediate MRI? They cost money.
It is hard to see Washington advancing without a solid start from Scherzer. By the time you read this, you will know which game he expects to start. A gamer and a pitcher who reads his health well, he will not take the hill if the injury can get worse.
Even if it is Monday’s Game 3 at Wrigley, Scherzer must be himself and not a pale imitation. Nagging leg and neck injuries hampered him down the stretch. You know, the same guy who pitched for ten weeks last years with a broken finger?
If Scherzer’s leg limits his ability to start, then the Nats are in real trouble. The season might rest on a combined Jackson/Cole game. They better hope Strasburg and Gonzalez can get through five innings at least in the first two games.
A healthy Scherzer later in the series gives the Nats an ace in the hole when they need it. But, he has to make a start.