Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Mets have shined as a unit all season long with several players standing out, but no player has stood out quite like Max Scherzer has. As many have awaited the return of Jacob deGrom, it’s been the 38-year-old future Hall of Famer that has led the Mets’ pitching staff to the mountaintop.

When Scherzer agreed to a three-year deal with the Mets it sent a huge tidal wave throughout the league. As a result of the deal, the Mets boasted a top rotation led by two of the greatest pitchers of our generation. While Scherzer has bestowed his wisdom upon the young pitchers in the Mets’ clubhouse. It’s been his on-the-field play that has shined throughout the season.

In 15 games started this season, Max Scherzer has an 8-2 record with a 1.98 ERA and 120 strikeouts. His 1.98 ERA is the lowest by a Mets’ pitcher in their first 15 games with the ball club.

Scherzer has also had five games with 10 or more strikeouts. He is only the fourth Mets’ pitcher to post a double-digit strikeout game at the age of 38 years old. He has also now collected 109 double-digit strikeout games throughout his career which leaves him one-game shy of Roger Clemens for third overall in MLB history.

As Max Scherzer continues to build up his Hall of Fame resume, no greater game, up to this point, has mattered for Mets’ fans more than the game where Max Scherzer pitched against the Braves on Saturday night. After winning the first game of their doubleheader, the Mets called on Scherzer to help them extend their divisional lead against the Braves in the nightcap.

Max Scherzer was brilliant as he struck out 11 batters in seven shutout innings. The Mets’ offense gave Scherzer great run support as they led 4-0 before his exit. Scherzer’s longevity in the game helped the bullpen as they only needed the assistance of Mychal Givens and Trevor May.

While the eyes of the baseball world will be on Jacob deGrom in Sunday’s matchup. It was Max Scherzer’s brilliance that truly turned around the momentum of this series. The Mets have now won three games out of four so far, with Sunday’s matchup being a much-needed fourth win. That if deGrom and company can hold off the Braves once again.