why is max scherzer not playing

Max Scherzer is not playing recently because the Toronto Blue Jays left him off their American League Division Series (ALDS) roster. He has had injury issues this season, including thumb inflammation that sidelined him since late March 2025. Although he made a brief start in late March, his recovery was delayed and uncertain for a long time. The team decided to exclude him from the playoff roster for strategic reasons related to his health and availability. This means he is currently not active for the Blue Jays in the postseason.