Washington Nationals: 10 greatest moments at Nationals Park
By Brian Foley
7. Max Scherzer ties MLB record with 20 K’s (2016)
Max Scherzer, more so than anyone else in baseball, is capable of a historic, record-breaking performance each time he toes the rubber.
Max Scherzer has made 101 starts for the #Nationals, including postseason play, thus far. He has carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning in 12 of those starts.
— Ryan M. Spaeder (@theaceofspaeder) November 16, 2017
At this point, after seeing Scherzer on no-hitter watch nearly 12 percent of the time, fans are so blasé towards his otherwise dominant efforts. Seven innings, two runs, 10 strikeouts? Please, that’s about as run of the mill as the Mets slotting another corner outfielder in center. But every so often, the three-time Cy Young award winner spins something so magical that Nats fans can’t help but be wowed.
In May 2016, in his first start against his former Detroit squad, Scherzer racked up 20 strikeouts, something only three other pitchers have ever accomplished (Roger Clemens (twice), Randy Johnson, and Kerry Wood). Scherzer issued zero free passes and scattered just six hits, all while fanning Miguel Cabrera, J.D. Martinez, Ian Kinsler, James McCann, and Anthony Gose three times apiece.
We are witnessing one of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, and a certain Hall of Famer. Sure, the long ball can bite him from time-to-time, but his ability to thoroughly embarrass a major league lineup for nine straight innings sets Scherzer apart from the rest of the big leagues.