Travis spurred by facing Scherzer as Blue Jays down Nationals

TORONTO 2 WASHINGTON 0

TORONTO — Devon Travis had some experience with Max Scherzer after facing him in spring training years ago.

He knew heading into Saturday’s game how deadly Scherzer’s stuff can be. And he was ready for it. Travis hit a two-run homer off the Nationals ace, backing a solid start from Marco Estrada, as the Toronto Blue Jays defeated Washington 2-0 to guarantee a series win in the three-game interleague set.

“My first big league camp, Scherzer was still with the Tigers and I got to face him a little bit on the back field,” said Travis, who was drafted by Detroit in 2012. “He’s a guy who, when you go to sleep at night and you know you’re facing Max Scherzer the next day, your heart starts to beat a little already. You’re up for a big challenge. He’s the best in the game and I’m just so thankful I was able to contribute today.”

Travis’ homer — his second hit of the game off the three-time Cy Young Award winner — followed a hit by pitch to Luke Maile in the fifth inning and snapped a scoreless tie. The Toronto second baseman, who also had a single in the third inning, provided half of the Blue Jays’ four hits on the day.

But it was his homer that he was most proud of. “It was kind of a front-door slider, he probably wasn’t looking to throw there,” Travis said. “He doesn’t make many mistakes, so, when he does, you better hope you take advantage.”