Max Scherzer Scratched From World Series Game 5 Start Due to Neck and Back Spasms
By Karl Rasmussen
The Washington Nationals planned to have their best pitcher on the rubber for the critical Game 5 against the Astros, but it turns out they've instead been left scrambling.
Max Scherzer, the projected starter, is reportedly dealing with back and neck spasms which worsened overnight, which will prevent him from making the start on Sunday night. In his stead, the Nats will roll with right-hander Joe Ross out of sheer desperation.
Max Scherzer will NOT start Game 5. Spasms in back and neck. Joe Ross will start.
— Tyler Kepner (@TylerKepner) October 27, 2019
This is incredibly alarming news for the Nationals, who were expecting to have their ace on the mound for the momentum-halting World Series game at Nationals Park, before the series returns to Houston.
It's unclear how this will change the Nationals' rotation plans for the remainder of the series, but considering all that's at stake in Game 5, this is a brutal blow for Washington. The team is still planning to start Stephen Strasburg in Game 6, and they will keep Scherzer on the roster, in hopes of having him available for a potential Game 7.
Unfortunately, they need him right now.
Scherzer scratched for tonight due to issue in his trap/neck area. Received injection. #Nationals still hopeful he can pitch Game 7, if necessary. Joe Ross starts tonight. Anibal Sanchez available in relief.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) October 27, 2019
Ken Rosenthal also notes that Anibal Sanchez, who started Game 3, will be available in relief.
Ross will be squaring off with Gerrit Cole on Sunday night, as the Astros hope to get after the 26-year-old and leave the Nation's Capitol with a 3-2 series lead.
Their path to World Series glory just got far easier.