Before the 2015 season, a significant event took place in the baseball world. Scherzer joined the Nationals with a remarkable seven-year, $210 million deal that would be paid out over 14 years. This deal included a massive $105 million deferral, which at the time held the title of the largest in MLB history. It was a deal that set the stage for what was to come.

Why the Nationals Loved Having Scherzer

Despite the hefty price tag, the Nationals reaped numerous benefits from having Scherzer in their rotation. His pitching statistics were truly astonishing. He accumulated a stunning 2.89 ERA, which indicates his exceptional ability to keep runs off the board. His 0.96 WHIP showed his control and efficiency on the mound. In 189 starts across seven seasons, he racked up an incredible 1,610 strikeouts, demonstrating his dominance and ability to get batters out. He won consecutive NL Cy Young Awards in 2016 and 2017, a testament to his excellence. Scherzer was also selected to the All-Star team five times during his tenure in Washington, highlighting his status as one of the league's top pitchers. During the 2015 season alone, he pitched two no-hitters, further solidifying his reputation. And his role in the Nationals' franchise-first World Series victory in 2019 was crucial, as he provided the leadership and performance needed to bring the championship to the team.

The Impact of Scherzer's Departure

Three years after being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers at the 2021 trade deadline, it becomes evident why the Nationals would welcome him back. The team is in the midst of a rebuild, and having a veteran presence like Scherzer is exactly what they need to push their young core towards contention. In 2025, the Nationals' starting rotation will be led by MacKenzie Gore and Jake Irvin. However, as of now, the remaining three slots in the rotation are up for grabs during spring training. On Dec. 4, Bleacher Report's Reuter predicted that Mitchell Parker and DJ Herz would secure two of those spots, but there are several other pitchers in the mix, including Jackson Rutledge, Josiah Gray, Cade Cavalli, Joan Adon, and Cole Henry.

The Nationals' Rebuild and Payroll Flexibility

The Nationals posted identical 71-91 records in 2023 and 2024, showing their continued efforts in emerging from the rebuild. With starter Patrick Corbin's six-year, $140 million deal aging poorly, it is almost off Washington's books (they still owe him $10 million in deferred money in 2025). This gives the team some much-needed payroll flexibility. They can now focus on firming up the rotation with a reliable leader, and Scherzer would be the perfect fit. His experience and leadership would help guide the young pitchers and add stability to the team.