Walker Buehler Returns to Injured List
Los Angeles Dodgers' pitcher Walker Buehler has been placed on the injured list due to right hip inflammation. This news comes as a blow to both the player and the team, particularly after his long road to recovery following a second Tommy John surgery that kept him out for most of 2022 and the entirety of the 2023 season.
Once a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation, Buehler has struggled to regain his form from 2018 to 2021, a period during which he won 39 games with an ERA that never rose above 3.44. Despite his promising career statistics, his recent performances have fallen short of expectations, prompting this latest stint on the injured list.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since May 8, 2024, Buehler's return to the mound has been challenging. He has accumulated a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA over eight starts. His most recent outing in Colorado encapsulated his struggles. During that game, he was struck by a line drive on the hip but chose to continue pitching. Eventually, he surrendered seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs.
Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts revealed that Buehler's hip had been sore for several starts. Roberts emphasized the importance of this injured list stint for Buehler to regroup both physically and mentally. "I think he's a little bit sort of finding himself again. I think he's still in search mode. So, as he's getting back to health, I think for the mind and some clarity, I think this will be a good thing," Roberts explained.
For Buehler, the frustration is palpable. "It sucks to feel kind of invaluable, or like you're hampering your team. At the end of the day, we really like our team and want to be ready for the end of the year. And I'm going to do whatever I need to do to feel like I can help our team at the end of the year and do everything in my power to be valuable enough to be on those rosters," Buehler said.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers have activated Bobby Miller, another promising young pitcher. Miller has not pitched since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. In his second major league season, Miller has shown significant promise, posting a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year. His impressive rookie season in 2023 demonstrated his potential to be a valuable asset to the Dodgers' pitching staff.
Miller's return adds much-needed depth to a Dodgers' rotation that has been plagued by injuries. His ability to step up will be crucial as the team navigates this challenging period without one of its star pitchers.
Looking Forward
Despite recent setbacks, Walker Buehler's career statistics remain impressive. Over seven seasons, he has a 47-20 record and a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are hopeful that rest and recovery will allow Buehler to return to his top form. His resilience and dedication to the team's future are evident, and the organization remains optimistic about his recovery.
Injuries are an inevitable part of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers have demonstrated remarkable depth and flexibility in their roster. The activation of Bobby Miller to cover the loss of Buehler is a testament to the team's preparedness and strategic planning.
As Buehler takes the time to heal, all eyes will be on his journey back to the mound. His return will be crucial for the Dodgers, particularly as they aim to make a strong push towards the end of the season. For now, the focus will be on his recovery and the performance of the other pitchers stepping into his role.
The Dodgers organization, fans, and teammates are all hopeful that this period of rest will be the catalyst for Buehler's return to his former glory. His journey will be closely watched, and his comeback will be eagerly anticipated.