Max Scherzer needs a mixtape after this between-the-legs trick play
By
Michael Clair
OK, we get it, it's time to just give Max Scherzer a YouTube channel for trick videos. After all, this is a pitcher who struck out 20 batters in a game, has thrown multiple no-hitters and thoroughly dominated the Orioles on Thursday night in the Nats' 4-0 victory (8 IP, 2 H, 0 BB, 10 K). It was also his league-leading 11th start this season with 10-plus strikeouts this season -- tying his career-high from last year. So of course, his next move is to just start turning trick plays during games. Like Satchel Paige when he would have all his fielders sit down during games, on Jonathan Schoop's ground ball in the top of the fifth inning, Scherzer turned around and patiently waited for the ball to drop into his waiting glove in between his legs.
Sure, you could say that he was only turned around because of his natural pitching motion, but like a magician who makes it appear like he's cut in half, it's all illusion. After the game, manager Dusty Baker told MLB.com's Jamal Collier that it was the "First time I've seen that. Good thing that ball didn't hop up on him, know what I mean?" Meanwhile, Bryce Harper was already prepared for Scherzer to start bragging about the play. "I think we'll be hearing a lot about that the next couple of days so I don't want to give him too much credit," Harper said.