Washington, January 23, 2026
Scherzer Staying Patient, Nationals & Mets Make Moves
Table of Contents
As MLB spring training nears, Max Scherzer is willing to wait for the right prospect, while other teams are actively reshaping their rosters.
- Veteran pitcher Max Scherzer is prepared to delay signing with a team until after Opening Day if it means landing with one of his preferred destinations.
- The Washington Nationals are exploring trade options,with Jacob Young drawing interest from other clubs.
- The New York Mets recently acquired pitcher Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers.
- Veteran pitcher Aaron Sanchez is generating interest from multiple teams after a strong performance in the Dominican Winter League.
Free agent pitcher Max Scherzer is taking a patient approach to his agency this offseason. According to reports, the 41-year-old has indicated he is healthy and ready to sign, but is willing to hold out until after opening Day if it increases his chances of joining a team he favors.
Scherzer Weighs Options
Scherzer finished last season with a 5-5 record and a 5.19 ERA across 17 starts. However, he showed improvement in the postseason, posting a 3.77 ERA in three appearances, including two in the World Series. He did not disclose which teams are on his list of preferred destinations.
Nationals Explore Trades
While Scherzer navigates his free agency, his former team, the Washington Nationals, appears poised to be active on the trade market. jacob Young has reportedly garnered interest from other clubs, though the Nationals’ intentions regarding a potential trade remain unclear. The Nationals recently traded mackenzie Gore on Thursday.
Mets Add Pitching Depth
The New York Mets have been busy this week, most recently acquiring pitcher Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers received a package of prospects in return for Peralta, but outfielder prospect Carson Benge was not a central part of the discussions.
Sanchez generating Interest
Veteran pitcher Aaron Sanchez, who hasn’t appeared in a major league game as 2022, is also drawing attention from several teams. The 33-year-old recently earned Pitcher of the Year honors in the Dominican Winter League, where he recorded a 1.55 ERA.
Looking Ahead to Opening Day
As teams prepare for spring training, which is just a month away, expect further roster adjustments as front offices aim to solidify their squads before the start of the season.
