Mets Fans Celebrate: Max Scherzer Returns

For the first time in 47 days, the New York Mets' prized offseason signing, ace Max Scherzer, will throw a pitch in anger for the NL East leaders. And everyone involved is breathing a huge sigh of relief, as the Mets try to hold off the charging Atlanta Braves.

The New York Post even proclaimed that Mad Max's return could "save the Mets' season."

The back page: Max Scherzer is ready for return to mound for Mets https://t.co/USrnleor6v pic.twitter.com/ZaQi66MHYb
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) July 5, 2022

The 37-year-old 8-time All-Star has been out with an oblique strain since May 18th. He's never missed that much time in the middle of a season throughout his incredible 15-year career. And it certainly didn't sit well with the fiery competitor.

Max Scherzer on his 47-day gap between major league starts, which ends tomorrow: "It sucked."
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) July 4, 2022

“It sucked,” said Scherzer. “I had never done that in my career, so I want to be out there competing with the guys, especially when we are playing good baseball. I am happy for the success everybody is having and I just want to go out there and do my thing and be part of the winning as well.”

Scherzer was off to his usual dominant start before his injury, going 5-1 with a 2.54 ERA in helping the Mets get off to a healthy lead in the division. But the Braves have been closing the gap, and getting Mad Max back is a huge relief.

The team's other ace, Jacob deGrom, threw some nasty heat in his first rehab start this weekend, so he, too, could be back soon.

Photo Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports