The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to welcome a crucial member of their starting rotation back, as Walker Buehler is scheduled to make his first major league start in nearly two years on Monday, following an extensive rehab assignment.
Buehler, a right-hander, made six starts between Single-A Rancho Cucamonga and Triple-A Oklahoma City, posting a 0-2 record with a 4.15 ERA and a 1.62 WHIP over 21.2 innings pitched. Although the statistics might not stand out, Buehler delivered an impressive performance in his latest start against the Salt Lake Bees, allowing just one run and striking out five over five innings on 75 pitches. His fastball also hit the mid-90s, showcasing his potential return to form.
As the Dodgers head into the series as the National League West leaders, it will be interesting to see how betting sites set the odds for Buehler’s return game. Los Angeles is anticipated to be the heavy favorite against the struggling Florida Marlins, who have had a slow start this season.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about Buehler’s progress, as reported by Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“We’re excited about that. Everything checked out,” Roberts said, referring to Buehler’s final rehab start as “his best one.”
Regarding expectations for Buehler, Roberts is hopeful the 29-year-old will return to his previous form following his second elbow surgery:
“I think he’s going to still be Walker. He’s going to be attacking. But I think there’s an attacking with his entire repertoire. I think that in years past, it was heavy fastball, heavy cutter where I think that Walker has more weapons. And I think that’s what my hope is, instead of just trying to bully guys.”
Before his latest surgery, Buehler had established himself as one of baseball’s top starting pitchers. He earned two All-Star selections and shared the role of co-ace with Clayton Kershaw. He was instrumental in the Dodgers’ 2020 World Series championship run.
Buehler’s start against the Miami Marlins will be his first since June 10, 2022, when he injured his elbow during a game against the San Francisco Giants, necessitating his second Tommy John surgery and flexor tendon repair.
To make room for Buehler’s return to the rotation, the Dodgers have optioned Landon Knack to Oklahoma City ahead of their series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Knack, 26, made three starts at the major league level, recording a 1-1 record with a 2.81 ERA and 11 strikeouts in 16 innings.
