Nationals ace Max Scherzer scratched from Game 5 start with neck spasm

The Washington Nationals have scratched scheduled starting pitcher Max Scherzer from Sunday's Game 5 due to a spasm in his neck.

Scherzer was set to face Houston Astros ace Gerrit Cole with the World Series tied 2-2.

Joe Ross will get the start for Washington in place of Scherzer, who was the winning pitcher in Game 1.

Nationals manager Dave Martinez said if Scherzer's condition improves he could appear in relief in Game 6 or start a possible Game 7.