Max Scherzer was pulled after one inning, allowing seven runs, in a 20-1 loss to the Royals on Sept. 19, 2025.

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer was pulled after two outs in the first inning against the Kansas City Royals on Sept. 19, 2025, surrendering seven runs on seven hits—the shortest start of his 18-year career without injury. The 41-year-old, with a 5.06 ERA this season, has struggled early in games, allowing multiple runs in the first inning in each of his last four starts. The Royals won 20-1, with Salvador Perez and Michael Massey hitting home runs during a six-batter barrage. Scherzer said he wasn’t overly concerned, noting his pitch locations were mostly fine and attributing the damage to strong swings. Blue Jays manager John Schneider called it a rare “weird outing” but confirmed Scherzer will remain in the rotation with no change to workload. Toronto leads the AL East, and the team hopes Scherzer regains form before the playoffs.