What's a little pain? Max Scherzer pitching for the Washington Nationals in June 2019, a day after he broke his nose and got a black eye when he was hit by a ball during batting practice. (more) Max Scherzer One of the greatest baseball pitchers of his generation Written by Tracy Grant Tracy Grant is a senior editor at Encyclopaedia Britannica. She previously served as editor in chief, the first woman to hold that title. Tracy Grant Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Mar. 12, 2026 •History What's a little pain?Max Scherzer pitching for the Washington Nationals in June 2019, a day after he broke his nose and got a black eye when he was hit by a ball during batting practice.© Patrick Smith/Getty Images They don’t call him “Mad Max” for nothing. Widely regarded as one of the most dominant right-handed pitchers in Major League Baseball in the first part of the 21st century, Max Scherzer’s competitive drive and ferocious style...

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