Scherzer starting vs. Phillies amid growing trade speculation
In somewhat of a surprising twist, Washington Nationals right-hander Max Scherzer will start Game 1 of Thursday's doubleheader against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Game 1 lineup.#NATITUDE pic.twitter.com/wjkLJIz6nW
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) July 29, 2021
Scherzer was scratched from his last start with triceps discomfort and has been involved in trade rumors ahead of Friday's deadline.
This may seem obvious because of pure timing, and Max Scherzer having to work through and approve any deal, but the feeling around the organization is that Scherzer will likely be dealt at some point today.
— Jesse Dougherty (@dougherty_jesse) July 29, 2021
The Nationals ace is reportedly the target of several clubs, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and San Diego Padres.
Nationals manager Dave Martinez said it could be tough to remove Scherzer from Thursday's game if he's traded mid-start, according to Maria Torres of The Athletic.
Asked Dave Martinez if he would feel comfortable removing Max Scherzer from the game if "something" occurs, and he laughed. "It might be a struggle. I might have to carry him off the field."
— Maria Torres (@maria_torres3) July 29, 2021
Washington and Philadelphia are playing a doubleheader on Thursday due to the Nationals' COVID-19 outbreak, which caused Wednesday's game to be postponed.