Max Scherzer part of Texas Rangers’ roster for ALCS vs. Astros

(AP photo/Tony Gutierrez)

HOUSTON — Max Scherzer left little doubt Friday on whether he would be on the Rangers’ roster for the American League Championship Series after throwing a bullpen session. On Sunday, it became official.

The right-hander was reinstated from the 10-day injured list and is one of the 26 players the Rangers will have for the best-of-7 series against the Astros. Game 1 is set for 7:15 p.m. Sunday at Minute Maid Park.

Another right-hander on the IL also made the roster. Jon Gray, who threw live batting practice after the Rangers’ Saturday workout, was also activated.

The Rangers had little doubt that Scherzer had recovered from the strained teres major muscle in his right shoulder. As recently as Sunday afternoon, though, there was some question as to whether Gray was healthy enough after a late-season strain in his lower right forearm.

The Rangers have not said what roles Scherzer and Gray will be filling, but expect Scherzer to be a starter and Gray to come out of the bullpen.

Right-hander Matt Bush and left-hander Brock Burke were left off the ALCS roster after being on the roster for the division series.

The 13 position players remained unchanged.

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— Jeff Wilson (@JeffWilsonTXR) October 15, 2023

Jeff Wilson, jeff@rangerstoday.com