Blue Jays going with Scherzer in Game 3, Bieber in Game 4
The Toronto Blue Jays are turning to two veteran arms in Games 3 and 4 of the World Series in Los Angeles.
Right-hander Max Scherzer will get the start in Game 3, and Shane Bieber gets the ball in Game 4, manager John Schneider announced Saturday.
"I absolutely respect playing in the World Series and absolutely cherish these opportunities," Scherzer told reporters Saturday.
"When I get a chance to get the ball, this means everything."
Schneider said he wanted to give Bieber an extra day of rest after he pitched in Game 7 of the ALCS, according to Sportsnet's Hazel Mae. Schneider added he feels confident with the decision to start both veterans on the road.
Scherzer pitched well in his last start during Game 4 of the ALCS, striking out five in 5 2/3 innings in a performance highlighted by a memorable mound visit with Schneider.
The 41-year-old, who made 11 starts for the Dodgers in 2021, has been terrific against his former team, holding L.A. to a .619 OPS in 109 2/3 career innings.
Bieber is 1-0 with a 4.38 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 12 1/3 innings this postseason. The 30-year-old has made only one career start against the Dodgers, striking out nine across 6 1/3 frames.
The Dodgers will counter with Tyler Glasnow in Game 3 and Shohei Ohtani in Game 4.