The Los Angeles Dodgers clubhouse is full of experienced veterans, with the likes of Chase Utley, Clayton Kershaw, Justin Turner, Kenley Jansen and others providing leadership.
Along with those veterans though, there is a number of talented young players, one of which is rookie Walker Buehler.
Buehler had a breakout 2018 campaign, surpassing Kershaw as the ace of the Dodgers staff in the minds of many. Buehler’s latest performance was his most memorable one, tossing 6.2 shutout innings in Game 163 against the Colorado Rockies to help the Dodgers clinch the National League West.
Despite being just 24 years of age, Buehler displays as much confidence as anyone on and off the field, which also injects confidence in his other teammates.
Buehler was recently candid in admitting that he may not be the best teammate, but he believes that the confidence and intensity that he brings to the ballpark every day helps contribute to a good clubhouse atmosphere, via Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times:
“I’m not going to be the guy who is first there, leaves last, bumps everybody up,” Buehler said. “But I think every team needs some guys who want to talk … and have fun.” He added, “I don’t think anybody would say I’m a bad teammate. But I don’t think I’m going to win any best teammate awards.”
The next time Buehler takes the mound will be on Sunday in Game 3 of the NL Division Series, which will be his postseason debut. He’s following in the footsteps of Hyun-Jin Ryu and Kershaw, who combined to throw 15 shutout innings through the first two games.
Buehler will look to continue the roll he has been on and help the Dodgers to advance to the NL Championship Series for the third consecutive season.
