Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Max Scherzer, 41-year-old three-time Cy Young Award winner, is on the 15-day injured list with right forearm tendinitis (placed April 27, retroactive to April 25). Despite clean MRI results, Scherzer reports persistent forearm discomfort that is preventing him from advancing in his rehab. His ankle inflammation has improved, but the mysterious forearm issue remains unresolved. Scherzer is seeking additional medical opinions. He has struggled significantly in 2026, posting a 1-3 record with a 9.24 ERA in five starts, allowing 7+ runs in two of his last three starts and failing to complete the third inning in three outings. His last appearance was April 24 against Cleveland where he allowed 7 runs on 6 hits and 3 homers in 2.1 innings.
Strengths
- + Three-time Cy Young Award winner with Hall of Fame credentials
- + Clean MRI results suggest no structural damage
- + Ankle inflammation improving well
- + Threw 22-pitch bullpen session and reported feeling good
- + Team being appropriately cautious with recovery
Weaknesses
- - Persistent right forearm tendinitis not responding to treatment despite clean imaging
- - Confusing injury with no clear diagnosis despite multiple MRIs
- - Poor performance in 2026: 1-3 record with 9.24 ERA
- - Failed to complete third inning in three recent outings
- - Allowed 7+ runs in two of last three starts
- - Age 41 with history of injury concerns
- - Seeking additional medical opinions indicates frustration and uncertainty
- - Unable to ramp up throwing intensity during rehab
- - Signed for $3M with $10M in performance bonuses - incentive structure at risk
Injury Status: IL-15
About
Max Schrock is a second baseman for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
2B
Chicago Cubs