Max Scherzer said he feels normal. Two months after back surgery, the Texas Rangers right-hander spoke to reporters at Spring Training and described a recovery defined by the absence of pain — and the absence of permission to do much about it.
"I feel great. I feel normal," Scherzer said. "This is really weird to not be in any pain yet."
Scherzer underwent surgery on December 14, 2023 to repair a herniated disk in his lower back. The injury surfaced during Game 3 of the 2023 World Series, when he exited after three innings with back discomfort. The condition worsened during the offseason, and conservative treatment did not resolve it. The Rangers announced at the time of surgery that a return in June or July of 2024 was the target.
At the time of the interview, Scherzer had no pain. The challenge, he said, was the restriction itself.
"You can't do anything. That's almost the hardest part," he said. "You got to be so checked and so cautious of what you do even though there's no pain."
Scherzer said he was doing what he could within those limits. "I'm idling, I'm doing everything I can to stay in shape as best I can."
He did not give a specific timeline for his return. He framed the next step in simple terms: medical clearance, then readiness.
"Once I get the all cleared, then I'll be ready to go."