Max, in midseason mode, mows down Astros

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Max Scherzer was in midseason form on Saturday night. In a 2-0 victory over the Astros at the Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, Scherzer became the first Mets pitcher to throw seven innings this spring.

Scherzer was economical on the mound. By the time he left the game, he had thrown just 81 pitches, allowed only four hits and one walk and struck out eight batters, the last three coming in the seventh inning.

“Scherzer looked like you could tell he’s been working out this winter,” said Astros manager Dusty Baker, who managed Scherzer in 2016 and ‘17 when both were with the Nationals. “For a guy to go seven innings, he was sharp. He wasn’t throwing as hard as usual, but he was sharp with all his pitches.

“[Scherzer] had a real good slider, curveball, changeup and he located his fastball. That’s Scherzer -- what I’ve seen before I had him, after I had him, and while I had him. He can pitch. He’s one of the best there is."

Scherzer said he went deep into the game because he was able to get his share of first-pitch outs. He was also working on his slider throughout the game, but it appeared the Astros had problems with the pitch.  

“Today was good because I was able to face a bunch of righties,” Scherzer said. “I got to really work on my slider. I’m still a little inconsistent, but I’m starting to execute better. … I’m starting to get ground balls on it. I’m getting good results on that pitch specifically.”             

Although he looks ready for the regular season, Scherzer said there is some work that has to be done before the season starts on March 30 against the Marlins at loanDepot park. As he put it, the last two starts this spring are big. 

“You think you are ready for the season, but, no, there is still a lot to gain from these last two outings, especially this next [start],” Scherzer said. “I potentially can get up to 100 pitches. There is work to be done to make sure you are absolutely ready for Opening Day.”