Max Scherzer’s Rehab Progress and Umpiring Proposal for MLB

Three-time Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer has been making progress in his comeback from back surgery as he recently threw 52 pitches during a rehab outing with Triple-A Round Rock. Although the former Detroit Tigers and Washington Nationals star allowed three runs on five hits, his focus is primarily on how his body responds to the workload rather than the outcome of the game itself. Scherzer suggested that MLB could improve its umpiring issues by implementing a regulation system for officials based on their accuracy in calling balls and strikes using an automated strike zone. He proposed demoting poor-performing referees down to the minor leagues, similar to how clubs are currently relegated within lower league divisions if they consistently fail to meet expectations. While Scherzer acknowledged that many umpires carry out their roles satisfactorily in present day major league matches, he believes this system would help address ongoing problems with officiating across the sport.