The Washington Nationals have had a disappointing 2021 season as they inch closer and closer to the bottom of the National League East. Staff ace Max Scherzer is now headed to the IL as the Nationals aim to climb the rankings in the division.

This isn't entirely surprising after Scherzer left his previous start early while he was grimacing in pain.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Washington Nationals center fielder Dylan Crews (3) hits an infield single against the Baltimore Orioles during the fourth inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Nationals’ Dylan Crews finds silver lining in IL trip
Washington Nationals catcher Andrew Knizner (9) poses for a photo during picture day at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches.
Nationals release catcher hitting .382 in Triple-A
Apr 18, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Orioles outfielder Cedric Mullins (31) takes the field before the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images
Orioles’ Cedric Mullins goes full Willie Mays with insane snag vs. Nationals

While it is just a trip to the 10-day IL– for now– it could pose serious concerns for the Nationals and for Scherzer. The NL East has underwhelmed severely and has been ravaged by injuries from top to bottom.

Nonetheless, Scherzer has been excellent this season. He has a 5-4 mark with a 2.21 ERA with 104 Ks despite the Nationals sporous record. Could he be made available at the trade deadline if Washington can't turn things around?

Either way, things are looking bleak in the nation's capital and even more dismal after Scherzer is thrown on the IL. The good news is the Nationals can make up some ground with a series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, who themselves are cellar-dwellers in the NL Central.

The situation regarding Scherzer and the Nationals will be an interesting one to keep an eye on as the season progresses and draws closer to the MLB trade deadline.