Max Scherzer twists ankle during celebration, won't pitch on Wednesday

Originally expected to make one final tune-up start before the playoffs, Tigers right-hander Max Scherzer will not pitch on Wednesday after reportedly suffering a twisted ankle in Monday's massive on-field celebration, according to MLive.com's Chris Iott.

Scherzer has not pitched since Sept. 23 because of a shoulder problem, but managed to toss a pain-free bullpen session immediately before Monday's game. He was in line to start Wednesday's series finale with the Royals before the freak injury occurred during Detroit's overzealous celebration after Game 1.

Even though this conceivably could have been even worse, Tigers fans have to be pulling their hair out right now at the thought of a star pitcher like Scherzer suffering an injury during something as meaningless as a celebration. It's still unclear if Scherzer's new injury will force Detroit to alter its playoff rotation or not, but this is obviously awful news at what is supposed to be a relaxing time for the organization.

Tigers manager Jim Leyland will roll with Drew Smyly in Scherzer's place on Wednesday to wrap up the regular season. The 23-year-old rookie has whiffed 94 batters over 98 innings this year and will be looking for his fifth win of the season in Game 3.

Max Scherzer will not start Wednesday. Suffered a slightly twisted ankle during the on-field celebration last night. #Tigers

— Chris Iott (@Chris_Iott) October 2, 2012

Leyland on Scherzer: "On the field, during the celebration, when people were jumping on the pile, somebody stepped on his ankle."

— James Schmehl (@jamesschmehl) October 2, 2012