MLB insider surprisingly pitches Yankees as fit for aging future Hall of Famer

As the Yankees head into the 2025 season, it’s no secret they’ll be looking to bolster their rotation, especially after struggling with injuries and inconsistencies in 2024. One surprising free agent option linked to the Yankees is Max Scherzer, according to MLB insider Mark Feinsand.

Despite turning 40 last season and facing his own injury setbacks, Scherzer’s track record and potential to rebound make him an enticing option for New York. On Nov. 4, Yankees ace Gerrit Cole agreed to stay with the Yankees on the same deal he'd recently opted out of (4 years, $144 million), meaning the Yanks' rotation hole isn't quite so vacuous.

Still, they'll be looking for high upside options, and though Scherzer's cost and injury troubles make him a surprising option, there's benefit there.

Here is a breakdown of what Max Scherzer can bring to the Yankees.

1. Veteran Leadership and Championship Experience

Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, eight-time All-Star, and World Series champion, brings the kind of experience few pitchers possess. While many decline with age, Scherzer has shown resilience, displaying glimpses of his elite form even in seasons impacted by injuries. The Yankees’ rotation, filled with young talent, could greatly benefit from his veteran presence, especially as they aim for a deep postseason run. His experience could offer the stability and guidance that the rotation has recently been missing.

2. Elite Pitching Pedigree and Competitive Drive

Scherzer's career stats speak for themselves: a 3.15 career ERA, over 3,400 strikeouts, and a reputation for thriving in high-pressure situations. Even in a season with limited innings due to back and hamstring issues, Scherzer posted a 3.95 ERA and maintained his status as a fierce competitor in 2024 (despite making only nine starts).

The Yankees are known for taking calculated risks on proven veterans, and Scherzer’s competitive nature aligns well with the organization’s “win-now” mentality. With Scherzer on the mound, New York would gain a battle-tested ace who’s still hungry to win.

3. Potentially Affordable Contract

Scherzer earned $43.3 million last season, but given his age and injury history, he’s unlikely to command the same salary in 2025. This opens the door for the Yankees to sign him on a shorter, more team-friendly deal, allowing them to pursue other roster upgrades while filling a rotation spot with one of the most accomplished pitchers of his generation. If he’s willing to sign a one- or two-year deal, the Yankees could have a bargain for a pitcher who, when healthy, is still highly effective.

4. Depth for a Rotation in Need of Stability

The Yankees’ rotation has been plagued by injuries, with key starters missing time throughout recent seasons. Gerrit Cole continues to be the team’s ace, but battled elbow trauma to begin 2024. Carlos Rodón’s long-term health is still in question after back issues sapped his effectiveness in 2023. The team's other young arms need time to develop and learn to provide length. Therefore, adding a reliable, experienced starter like Scherzer could solidify the rotation. Scherzer, even in a more limited role, could provide flashes as a middle-of-the-rotation starter, helping the Yankees weather the long season and avoid the same issues they faced in 2024.

5. High-Reward Potential with Reduced Risk

While any veteran pitcher brings some level of risk, the potential rewards with Scherzer could far outweigh them. If his injuries are behind him and he’s able to stay healthy, Scherzer could still offer ace-level production. With his proven track record and competitive mindset, Scherzer on a short-term contract could become one of the offseason’s best value signings if he returns to form.

If Scherzer wants to take a pay cut to be a Yankee, I see nothing wrong with it. All Yankees fans can do is hope Scherzer stays healthy and that he can return to his three-time Cy Young self.

Of course, with a potential Juan Soto expenditure looming, every dollar matters, and the Yankees must make absolutely certain they're being prudent when dabbling in this market.