What is free agent Max Scherzer worth? Do the math

So how much is free agent Max Scherzer really worth?

Seven years, $175.5 million, according to AJ Cassavell of sportsonearth.com — or a year and $31 million more than the Tigers offer that Scherzer turned down.

Here's how Cassavell got his numbers:

■He figures Scherzer, given his age and track record, is still good for two great years, two good years and two "serviceable" years. And he threw in a seventh year because of the free agent card and Scherzer's the best one left.

■He's the best pitcher left, worth a six-victory swing to a team. Now we're talking WAR (wins above replacement), which Cassavell said has been worth about $7 million per win on the free agent market.

He's allowing Scherzer a WAR of 6 for each of the next two seasons, 3.5 the three after that and 1 for the last two, which adds up to 24.5.

Multiply by $7 million and you have $171.5 million. Cassavell rounds up to $175.5 because it's a seller's market.

So it's simple. Who needs an agent?

Quick hits

■Jim Harbaugh, via Twitter: "Life at Michigan is Great! Great with a capital 'G!' "

Is it a Block G?

■Headline at theonion.com: "Report: Peyton Manning played entire season with 38-year-old body."

■Ex-Tigers pitcher Drew Smyly, tweeting: "Holding your pee in a car ride is the worst!"

It's the kind of thing ballplayers really think about when it's winter caravan time.

Compiled from staff reports and news services by STEVE SCHRADER: 313-222-6710 or sschrader@freepress.com.