Scherzer labors through 5 innings in Game 7 after battling injury

Mad Max lives.

Max Scherzer allowed two runs over five innings in Game 7 against the Houston Astros after the Washington Nationals ace suffered neck spasms and a trapezius injury prior to his scheduled Game 5 start.

Left-hander Patrick Corbin was summoned out of the bullpen to begin the sixth inning.

While it wasn't a vintage start from Scherzer, the 35-year-old kept the Nationals in the game while striking out three batters and allowing seven hits - including one homer - and four walks. The outing snaps a streak of 257 consecutive starts (including postseason play) during which Scherzer recorded more strikeouts than walks, the most in the live-ball era, according to STATS.

The three-time Cy Young winner became a late scratch before Game 5 on Sunday after waking up and being unable to get out of bed due to a nerve issue. Scherzer was given a cortisone shot, and spot starter Joe Ross wound up losing the game.

During the travel day, Scherzer wore a neck brace and flew first class. Before Game 6 began, the seven-time All-Star threw and informed reporters he felt "good." He also warmed up in the bullpen during Tuesday's win.