The Los Angeles Dodgers made it clear address their starting rotation this offseason was a focal point due in part to the likes of Walker Buehler, Jack Flaherty and Clayton Kershaw being among the team’s free agents.
Kershaw declined a player option for the 2025 season but made it clear he intends to re-sign with the Dodgers. However, when he’s going to be available is unclear as Kershaw underwent left toe and knee surgeries.
Meanwhile, Buehler and Flaherty figured to be secondary targets for the Dodgers amid reports of interest in Corbin Burnes, Blake Snell and Max Fried. L.A. wound up making a splash by agreeing to terms with Snell on a five-year, $182 million contract.
According to Ken Rosenthal on “Foul Territory,” the Dodgers signing Snell makes it unlikely that Buehler will return:
“I don’t expect Buehler to be back.”
Buehler was drafted by the Dodgers with the 24th overall pick in 2015 despite needing Tommy John surgery shortly after being selected. Buehler made his MLB debut in 2017 and became a key contributor for the Dodgers the following year.
That included being trusted as a rookie to start Game 163 against the Colorado Rockies with the National League West division on the line. Buehler continued to build on that and ascended to becoming one of the best big-game pitchers in baseball.
However, a second Tommy John surgery threw the right-hander off course as he struggled this year upon returning. Buehler managed to right the ship during the postseason, some of which he attributed to being comfortable with the pressure and excitement of October baseball.
Walker Buehler’s free agency
Thus far, Buehler has reportedly rejected interest from the Athletics due to not wanting to play in Sacramento, but is said to be open to joining the New York Yankees.
The Yankees are among multiple teams in the market for starting pitching help, and have been linked to Flaherty as well. New York is not expected to make a move on the pitching front until Juan Soto’s decision is finalized.
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