Max Scherzer -- arguably the best pitcher in the MLB -- was working on his bunting game in Nationals batting practice Tuesday ... when he popped a pitch straight into his face!!
The ball flew into his nose and right eye ... and the 3-time Cy Young winner had to leave the field a bloody mess.
WATCH - Max Scherzer, who's scheduled to start Wednesday, was hit in the face by a ball during batting practice.
Details: https://t.co/sNoPv3co00 pic.twitter.com/27FonlyC33 — Nationals on MASN (@masnNationals) June 18, 2019Bad news for Washington .