Max Scherzer’s Three-Word Dugout Taunt Epitomizes Blue Jays’ Frustration Over Yankees’ Delay

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – MAY 04: Max Scherzer #31 of the Toronto Blue Jays takes the field prior to the game between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on Monday, May 4, 2026 in St. Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Alex Zadorozny/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

MLB Photos via Getty Images

The Toronto Blue Jays have leaned heavily on Max Scherzer’s experience this season and last, even as the veteran right-hander has navigated health issues and searched for his best form on the mound. His value, however, extends far beyond his pitching line. With more than a decade of postseason experience, three Cy Young Awards, and a place among baseball’s all-time strikeout leaders, Scherzer remains one of the most respected voices in the clubhouse. His competitive fire has not dimmed, even if he is no longer the frontline ace of his peak years.

“I never once lost belief in my ability, if I’m healthy, to be able to go out there and get outs, compete and try to win ballgames,” Scherzer recently told MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. “Yeah, I’ve had little ailments pop up; OK, great, move on. No one feels sorry for you, so you’ve got to get back out here and start competing.”

That mentality was on full display Friday, though Scherzer was not the one taking the mound. Instead, he voiced the frustration shared by many in the Blue Jays’ dugout as New York Yankees rookie Cam Schlittler inexplicably delayed the start of the rivalry matchup.

Slated to start at 7:05 p.m., Schlittler was nowhere to be seen as first pitch approached. Television cameras captured the Blue Jays waiting impatiently, with Scherzer among those visibly reacting to the holdup. The outspoken veteran made his feelings unmistakably clear with a three-word message directed at the young Yankee.

“Pitch clock violation!” Scherzer yelled from the dugout while tapping his wrist, a moment captured in a broadcast snippet shared by Sportsnet.

The exchange offered an entertaining glimpse into Scherzer’s competitive personality while underscoring the annoyance felt by Toronto’s players. Manager John Schneider, by contrast, downplayed the incident.

“We got no explanation,” Schneider said after the game, according to Sportsnet’s Hazel Mae. “I don’t know if he had to use the bathroom, or I don’t know. Not a big deal, you know what I mean? We were ready to go.”

Blue Jays Still Benefit from Scherzer’s Competitive Edge

While Scherzer’s reaction was demonstrative, it aligns with the intensity Toronto acquired when it signed the veteran. His worth is not limited to statistics or innings pitched. Scherzer has spent his career competing at the highest level, and that intensity remains a vital asset for a Blue Jays team with postseason aspirations.

For Toronto, having a veteran willing to speak up from the dugout can be invaluable, especially as younger players navigate the pressures of a playoff race.

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