The Los Angeles Dodgers announced ahead of Thursday’s series finale against the Chicago Cubs that they have activated Walker Buehler and placed Josh Fields on the 10-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation.
Buehler was originally scheduled to make a rehab start with Triple-A Oklahoma City on Thursday, but with Fields hitting the disabled list, the Dodgers have instead decided to use Buehler at the Major League level in relief of Clayton Kershaw.
With Kershaw only making his second start since coming off the disabled list, his target is to complete five innings. Buehler will then be expected to throw his scheduled three innings after the Dodgers’ ace.
Buehler missed the last three weeks with a microfracture in his ribs that he suffered when he was hit by a comebacker. Somehow, Buehler made starts before he landed on the disabled list with the injury.
Skipping rehab starts is not something that is new for Dodgers pitchers as Kershaw did the same thing just last week, returning and starting against the New York Mets when he was originally scheduled to pitch for Oklahoma City.
In nine starts so far this season, Buehler is 4-1 with a 2.63 ERA, 2.26 FIP and 0.96 WHIP while striking out 54 hitters while only walking 11 in 51.1 innings.
Losing Fields is a tough blow for the Dodgers as he has been one of their best relievers so far this season. In 37 games, Fields has posted a 2.36 ERA, 3.77 FIP and 0.93 WHIP with 28 strikeouts and nine walks in 34.1 innings.
It is unknown how long Fields will be out, although considering he is dealing with a shoulder issue, he will likely be shut down at least for a short period of time to help get rid of the inflammation.
As part of our efforts to help you understand how we handle the personal information you share with us, and in preparation for the new European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), we’ve updated our Privacy & Cookies Policy. The updated Privacy & Cookies Policy will take effect on May 22, 2018. By using our services on or after that date, you’ll be agreeing to our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy. We recommend that you read our updated Privacy & Cookies Policy in full.
