Scherzer out of All-Star Game after decision to start Sunday

BALTIMORE - Nationals manager Matt Williams has opted to start his ace Max Scherzer in this season's first half finale on Sunday in Baltimore. The decision leaves Scherzer unavailable to pitch for the National League in Tuesday's All-Star Game in Cincinnati.

"Rules stipulate that if you are a starting pitcher certainly on Sunday that you're not available for the All-Star Game to pitch," Williams said. "He's gonna go and enjoy the process and be part of it, but he'll be unavailable."

Scherzer was named the NL's Pitcher of the Month in May and June, but the Nationals haven't come close to taking full advantage of his brilliance so far. They've combined to score seven runs in Scherzer's seven losses.

"He's excited to pitch tomorrow," Williams said. "He's excited for his next start and help us win a game hopefully. He's very focused on that. We'll see how it is tomorrow, but we're glad to hand him the ball anytime we can."

Scherzer is 3-1 with a 3.92 ERA in six career regular season starts against Baltimore. However, the Orioles did plate five runs, including a homer from J.J. Hardy, to beat Scherzer last October in Game 1 of the American League Division Series at Camden Yards.

Giants manager Bruce Bochy, who is leading the NL's squad, will have to look elsewhere for a starting pitcher for the All-Star Game after Williams' decision. Bochy will also look to add another pitcher in Scherzer's absence. Nationals closer Drew Storen (25 saves) seems to be the most deserving to replace his teammate in Cincinnati.

"There's been conversation," Williams said. "But again, it's not our decision. It's Bruce's decision and Rags' (Giants pitching coach Dave Righetti) decision on who they want to be as part of their team. So we can lobby all we want. They'll have until tomorrow afternoon to make the final spots."

Williams indicated that Doug Fister will be available to pitch out of the bullpen tonight and tomorrow if needed. Fister's last outing was Tuesday, meaning he'll have a lengthy layoff if he doesn't see game action until after the All-Star break.