Scherzer throws five shutout innings as Blue Jays top Twins 2-1 in pre-season play

Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Max Scherzer (31) delivers a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during first inning Game 7 World Series playoff MLB baseball action in Toronto on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

Max Scherzer threw five shutout innings to lead the Toronto Blue Jays to a 2-1 pre-season win over the Minnesota Twins on Friday at Lee Health Sports Complex.

The veteran right-hander gave up two hits and two walks while striking out three. He threw 53 of his 73 pitches for strikes.

Josh Kasevich had two doubles and drove in a run for the Blue Jays (11-13).

Davis Schneider and Nathan Lukes also chipped in with two hits apiece. 

The Twins (8-17) halved the deficit in the ninth inning when Ian Daugherty scored on a Jayson Bass double.

Lazaro Estrada earned his first save by picking off Yilber Herrera at second base to end the game.

Kasevich was assigned to minor-league camp after the game along with catcher CJ Stubbs and outfielders Yohendrick Pinango and RJ Schreck.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 20, 2026.