$43 million annually — the highest average annual value in major league history.

The deal includes an opt-out after the second year, so Scherzer can hit the market again at 39 if he chooses.

That's an insane salary for one player. And a huge risk.

Max Scherzer’s Career Earnings


2006: One year, $3 million (Diamondbacks)
2007-2010: Four years, $4.3 million (Diamondbacks)
2011: One year, $600,000 (Tigers)
2012: One year, $3.75 million (Tigers)
2013: One year, $6.725 million (Tigers)
2014: One year, $15.525 million (Tigers)
2015-2021: Seven years $215 million (Nationals → Dodgers)
2021-2024: Three years, $130 million (Mets)

TOTAL TO DATE (no deferred money): $139,575,000

TOTAL TO DATE (including deferred money owed): $244,575,000

TOTAL THRU 2024 (including deferred money owed): $374,575,00

As part of his contract with the Nationals signed ahead of the 2015 season, Washington will pay Scherzer $15 million in deferred money once per year from 2022 through 2027. The Dodgers will make the final $15 million deferred payment in 2028.

The Nationals will effectively be paying Scherzer to pitch against them