In 1972, Scherman compiled a 7–3 record and 3.64 ERA with 12 saves in 57 games, including three as a starter. Scherman played in Game 2 of the 1972 American League Championship Series, a 5-0 loss. He knocked Reggie Jackson to the ground twice with pitches on the inside of the plate, and the game later exploded into a brawl when Lerrin LaGrow hit Bert Campaneris with a pitch in the same game. Some blamed Scherman's knockdowns of Jackson for causing the fight. Scherman pitched only of an inning in the ALCS and did not allow an earned run. Scherman won the "King Tiger" award from Detroit fans in both 1971 and 1972.