Max Scherzer (back) expected back Thursday for Nationals

Washington Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer (back) is expected to rejoin the rotation on Thursday versus the Pittsburgh Pirates.

What It Means:

Scherzer has made just one major league start since July 6 due to lingering upper back problems. The veteran ace right-hander is expected to be on a pitch count in his first game back.

Scherzer is 9-5 in 20 starts this season. He owns a 2.41 ERA and 0.99 WHIP with 189 strikeouts and 25 walks over 134 1/3 innings.