Three-time Cy Young Award winner and current strikeout leader Max Scherzer, who has pitched just once for the Texas Rangers since turning 40 last month, completed a 25-pitch bullpen session on Friday.

Despite dealing with injuries this season, Scherzer expressed confidence in his ability to pitch effectively and affirmed that he has no doubts about continuing his career.

“I’ve been able to compete, but I haven’t been completely myself,” Scherzer commented after the session, which was his first since being placed on the 15-day injured list two weeks ago due to shoulder fatigue.

“Even when I’m competing, I believe I can pitch at a high level. I still have the capability to perform well on the mound.”

Scherzer (2-4, 3.89 ERA) plans to conduct a longer bullpen session on Sunday. Based on his performance and how he feels afterward, he and the Rangers will determine if he requires additional practice or if he’s ready to return to game action.

“He had a good day down there,” said Rangers manager Bruce Bochy. “He utilized all his pitches and really let it fly. It was a productive session for him.”

Since his season debut on June 23, Scherzer has made only eight starts, following recovery from back surgery and dealing with a nerve issue in his arm.

In his most recent home start on July 25, just before turning 40, Scherzer allowed one run and struck out nine in six innings against the Chicago White Sox. This performance elevated him past Justin Verlander to 10th place on the all-time strikeout list, making him the leading active pitcher with 3,405 strikeouts.

On July 30, Scherzer gave up three runs in four innings at St. Louis and exited after 68 pitches. He was placed on the injured list on August 2, with the designation retroactive to the day following his last start.

With 456 games started and 2,874 innings pitched over 17 seasons, Scherzer ranks second among active pitchers, trailing only Verlander. He acknowledged that his major challenge this year has been regaining his form in the midst of the season.