But what if Scherzer (do we all agree he's a better pitcher, even if we don't know or agree that he'll age better?) is offered 7/$182million ($26 million a year for seven years)?
What if it's 8/$200 million? He might get more money or more years or both. If Chicago lost out on Lester to SF, why wouldn't they offer the same amount, and maybe even a little more, for Scherzer? Does anyone think that after Lester signs, it isn't the easy starting point for Scherzer? Does anyone think Scherzer would accept less? It's possible other teams share your opinion and don't think Lester is worth it.
But if they jump in the bidding for Scherzer, it sends the price tag that much higher, still. (It's why Marvin Miller is a genius, so was Charlie O, and Dan Duquette a magician to get Ramirez for less than the Indians were offering.)
If the Sox want a "bargain" in pitching, it has to be their own guy who starts to deliver, or they have to trade something of value to get it.