Walker Buehler is among the most intriguing players for the Los Angeles Dodgers for the upcoming season as he prepares to return to a Major League mound for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery.
Buehler last pitched in MLB on June 10, 2022, before missing the entire 2023 season. He attempted a late-season comeback this past season, but his return was halted late in the year.
Buehler has been working out at Dodger Stadium this offseason, and he posted a video of a bullpen session of him throwing to batters standing in.
The 29-year-old made one start for Triple-A Oklahoma City in September, striking out two batters over two hitless innings. Buehler projects to be part of the Dodgers’ upcoming rotation that loaded up with multiple front-end options in Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow.
In 65 innings pitched during his 2022 season, Buehler posted a 4.02 ERA, 3.80 FIP, 1.29 WHIP. Prior to injury concerns sparked up, he was one of MLB’s best right-handed starters, displaying a high-octane arsenal to overpower hitters.
Buehler is heading into the final year of his initial contract with the Dodgers, and a strong final season is on his own to-do list prior to free agency.
Walker Buehler and the Dodgers avoid arbitration
Buehler and the Dodgers reportedly agreed on a one-year, $8.025 million deal to avoid arbitration.
His contract includes numerous incentives, including bonuses for being named MVP of the League Championship Series or World Series.
Because he’s coming off a significant arm injury, and his standing as a multiple Tommy John surgery recipient, the Dodgers will be cautious with how he’s deployed in 2024.
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