ST. LOUIS • Watching from the opposing dugout this past spring training, Max Scherzer studied his friend, contemporary, and fellow thirtysomething Adam Wainwright's start in a Grapefruit League game against the Nationals. Scherzer wanted to see how Wainwright, back from an elbow injury and lacking some velocity, was going to modify his approach this season.
Scherzer watched from the railing of the Nats' dugout, tracked pitches, and every so often nodded as he saw Wainwright's mix.
The Cardinals' veteran righthander returns for his third start since coming off the disabled list and instead of having to salvage a season he has a chance to win one.