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Los Angeles Dodgers: Expect Max Scherzer for Game Seven no matter what

By David Hill

Oct 17, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) cycles through a pitch during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves in game two of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) cycles through a pitch during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves in game two of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Los Angeles Dodgers just will not go away. For the second consecutive NLCS, the Braves had taken a 3-1 lead in the series, only to see the Dodgers continue to battle. An emphatic Game Five victory for the Dodgers has to put that seed of doubt into the Braves’ minds, leaving them to wonder if another collapse could occur.

But not all is right in Dodger Land. Max Scherzer is dealing with arm fatigue, making it so that Walker Beuhler will start Game Six on short rest. However, this does not mean that Scherzer is done for the NLCS if the Dodgers win on Saturday.

Max Scherzer will not give Los Angeles Dodgers a choice

Frankly, calling Scherzer a possibility is an understatement. Given his bulldog mentality and desire to get the ball in any big spot, it would be more of a shock if Scherzer did not take the ball for a potential Game Seven than if he got the start. He is the type of pitcher that would walk into manager Dave Roberts‘ office and tell him that he’s starting no matter what.

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There are reasons why Scherzer would not get the ball. Most of them have to do with injury concerns, although if he does not start, it is certainly an indication that his arm fatigue is far worse than anyone is aware.

But even then, it may be difficult to keep Scherzer from taking the mound. He has been through these battles before, fully understanding what it takes to get to the World Series and win. While the Dodgers were able to win a title last season, they still do not have a pitcher with that same mentality and expectation that he will get the chance on the biggest stage as Scherzer does.

And that is what it comes down to. A pitcher such as Scherzer, one who knows what those moments mean and thrives in the spotlight, is an incredible asset. It is also an asset not to be ignored. Scherzer will make certain that he is not.

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If the Los Angeles Dodgers force a Game Seven, expect to see Max Scherzer on the mound. He will not give them a choice in the matter.

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