Clayton Kershaw has officially joined the prestigious 3,000-strikeout club, making him only the 20th pitcher in history to reach this milestone. Achieving this mark is particularly significant as Kershaw is part of a select group whose members have all debuted in the league post-1959, highlighting the evolution of pitching prowess in modern baseball.

Kershaw stands out not only for his strikeouts but also for his impressive metrics: he boasts the highest winning percentage at .697 and the best ERA+ (155) amongst the 3K pitchers. His ability to maintain a game score average of 61.9 and a quality start percentage of 68% further cements his legacy.

Despite having the fewest career innings among those with 3,000 strikeouts, Kershaw's efficiency and dominance set him apart. He is currently ranked 11th in terms of FWP (Fielding Win Probability) among the elite pitchers listed. With Kershaw, Justin Verlander, and Max Scherzer all active, the question arises: who will add their name to this impressive list next?

Three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw is on the brink of a significant milestone, needing just three more strikeouts to reach 3,000, a feat achieved by only 19 other pitchers in MLB history. Likely to accomplish this at home in front of the Los Angeles Dodgers fans, this achievement represents both a celebration and a poignant reflection on Kershaw's illustrious career. As one of the last of a generation known for throwing extensive innings, Kershaw’s recent performance has shown he's still capable, boasting a 4-0 record with a 3.03 ERA after returning from injury.

However, with the decline in durability among pitchers and the increasing prevalence of injuries, including Tommy John surgeries, Kershaw’s achievement raises questions about the future of longevity in pitching. As he, along with contemporaries like Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer, nears the end of their careers, the landscape of baseball pitching excellence seems to be shifting. The transition poses a challenge for newer pitchers, who face tougher conditions and higher velocities, potentially threatening the accumulation of traditional milestones like 200 career wins or 3,000 strikeouts.

Max Scherzer's 2025 season with the Toronto Blue Jays has been marred by injury and uncertainty, but his recent performances indicate potential for recovery. After a rocky start, Scherzer demonstrated resilience by striking out seven batters against the New York Yankees, while allowing only two earned runs in 5.2 innings. However, his early exit raised concerns about lingering fatigue in his thumb. Scherzer's current season stats show a 4.85 ERA over 13 innings, making this a pivotal moment for the veteran pitcher.

As the Blue Jays push for a postseason spot, Scherzer's health is paramount. Despite his age and recent injuries, his experience and strikeout capability could be crucial in tight games ahead. The Blue Jays' management will need to carefully monitor Scherzer's workload to avoid further setbacks during this critical time in the season.

Max Scherzer showcased his elite pitching skills at Rogers Centre, leading the Toronto Blue Jays to a 5-4 win over the New York Yankees. In his second start of the season, Scherzer struck out seven batters, allowing only three hits and two runs over five innings. His fastball was impressive, clocking in at over 95 mph, reflecting adjustments made after a thumb issue sidelined him earlier this season.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. highlighted Scherzer's dedication and focus, underscoring the impact his return has on the team, which is striving for a strong playoff push. Guerrero Jr. contributed significantly to the victory, driving in three runs. The Blue Jays now sit just two games behind the Yankees in the AL East, bolstered by a solid team performance that has seen them thrive in recent games.

Max Scherzer showcased a strong performance in his second start since returning from a thumb injury, striking out seven batters and walking none against the New York Yankees. Despite his efforts, he did not factor into the win as Toronto's bullpen rallied to secure a 5-4 victory, moving them closer in the AL East race. Scherzer allowed two runs on three hits over five innings, improving from his previous outing where he struggled. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. played a crucial role in the win, driving in two runs during a pivotal sixth inning.

This victory is vital for the Blue Jays as they aim to climb the AL East standings, now just two games behind the Yankees, thanks in part to Scherzer's resilience on the mound.