The Los Angeles Dodgers historically tap into their rich franchise history when it comes to a ceremonial first pitch during the postseason, but the 2022 National League Division Series thus far has seen a blend of the past and current with Eric Karros, Steve Sax and Walker Buehler getting the honors.
Karros and Sax threw out the first pitch before Game 1 at Dodger Stadium in celebration of their respective 30th and 40th anniversaries of winning the NL Rookie of the Year Award.
Then it was Buehler taking center stage for Game 2 despite recovering from a right flexor tendon repair and second Tommy John surgery.
Buehler accounted for his recovery process by throwing left-handed to Dodgers coach José Vizcaíno. It naturally lacked the velocity Buehler traditionally throws with, but was on target and made for a bright moment during what otherwise is a frustrating and disappointing time.
The unique situation of being a current player yet still throwing out the first pitch for the Dodgers was not lost on the clubhouse, and Clayton Kershaw took the opportunity to needle his teammate.
“Walker needs the center of attention at all cost, so he found it,” Kershaw joked before Game 1 of the NLDS. “I think he is doing the Fox broadcast too. He will be out there.
“No, Walker has obviously been a really huge part of this team and we’re going to miss him at this time. He has obviously pitched some huge games for us. Won a lot of huge postseason games for us, so we’re going to miss him. I think it’s great that we’re letting him be a part of it, and I hope he gets the standing ovation he deserves.”
Buehler’s first appearance as a guest analyst with Fox Sports is coming Friday for their coverage of Game 3.
When will Walker Buehler return from Tommy John surgery?
Although the general assumption is Buehler will miss the entire 2023 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, he and the Dodgers have not officially ruled out the possibility of pitching next year.
Though, that may be more of an option in Buehler’s estimation than the team’s.
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