Max Scherzer vs. Clayton Kershaw: Who Will End Up with a Better Career?

The question of who will end up with a better career between Max Scherzer and Clayton Kershaw has been a topic of discussion among baseball analysts for years. While both are recognized as top-tier pitchers, their career trajectories have taken different paths due to health, age, and performance.

Historical Performance and League Context

Kershaw has the advantage of starting his career much better than Scherzer. He had a strong presence in the World Series and playoff games, contributing significantly to the Los Angeles Dodgers' success. However, his performance in these crucial moments has been marred by a failing record and a high ERA, which is indications of his struggles in high-pressure situations.

Between the Astros' cheating scandal and Kershaw's pitching efforts, it becomes evident that the circumstances heavily impacted the Los Angeles Dodgers' chances of winning a World Series title. While Kershaw's individual performance was commendable, the external factors certainly influenced his team's success.

Current Health and Future Prospects

Around four years ago, Kershaw began experiencing back problems that have significantly impacted his performance. He is no longer the pitcher he once was, and it seems Scherzer is getting stronger. My prediction is that Scherzer will not only end up with more wins but will also continue pitching for longer than Kershaw.

Both Scherzer and Kershaw are considered great pitchers, and while Kershaw is four years younger, he has only one less victory and an ERA that is 0.76 lower. It is feasible that Scherzer can still Amass around 240 career wins, while Kershaw, barring significant injuries, might win between 250 to 275 games. These numbers put them both on par with many of the greatest pitchers in baseball history, with the potential to exceed even these impressive figures.

Future Predictions and Health Concerns

While Scherzer is projected to have 4 or more good years left in him, depending on his ability to maintain his current form, Kershaw is probably facing a decline due to early overuse. The Dodgers are currently monitoring his pitch counts and innings, which points to a concern that his effectiveness might be waning.

In conclusion, based on current health, performance, and future projections, Max Scherzer appears to have a slight edge in creating a standout career compared to Clayton Kershaw. Both players have had their moments and will likely be remembered as great pitchers in the history of the sport.