Max Scherzer is one of baseball's most intense and dominant pitchers, known for his piercing stare and electric stuff on the mound. But behind the fiery competitive spirit and the multiple Cy Young awards lies a deeply personal and poignant reason for the number emblazoned on his back: #31. It's more than just a number; it's a constant reminder of a profound bond and a powerful tribute that he carries with him every single start.
A Brother's Legacy on the Mound
The story behind Scherzer's iconic #31 is both heartbreaking and incredibly inspiring. He wears it in honor of his younger brother, Alex Scherzer, who tragically passed away in 2012. Alex, a promising athlete himself, proudly wore the number 31 throughout his high school and collegiate baseball career. Following Alex's death, Max, who had worn #37 with the Detroit Tigers up until that point, made the switch to 31 to keep his brother's memory alive on the biggest stage in professional sports.
From the moment he donned the number 31 in Detroit, through his Cy Young-winning stints with the Washington Nationals, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and now with the Texas Rangers, Scherzer has carried Alex's spirit with him. It's a daily dedication, a visible representation of the bond they shared, and a way for Max to feel his brother's presence every time he steps onto the pitching rubber. For Mad Max, the 31 isn't just a jersey; it's a powerful testament to family, memory, and the enduring power of a brother's love, fueling his legendary career pitch by pitch.
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