Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
Walker Buehler, the talented right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is once again heading to the injured list due to right hip inflammation. This latest setback is particularly concerning given his recent history with injuries.
Buehler missed a significant portion of the 2022 season and didn't play at all in 2023 after undergoing his second Tommy John surgery. As he tried to make a comeback, he struggled to recapture his stellar form from 2018 to 2021, a period during which he was a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation.
Strong Track Record from 2018 to 2021
During those four years, Buehler was one of the most reliable pitchers in Major League Baseball. He won an impressive 39 games, and his ERA never climbed above 3.44. This consistency made him an indispensable part of the Dodgers' pitching staff, propelling them to success year after year.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
However, the 2024 season has been challenging for Buehler. Since May 8, he has a 1-4 record with a troubling 5.84 ERA in eight starts. His latest outing in Colorado highlighted his struggles as he took a line drive off the hip but chose to stay in the game. Unfortunately, he surrendered seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs, a clear indicator that he was not at his best.
Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that Buehler's hip had been sore for several starts and emphasized the need for him to use the injured list to regroup both physically and mentally.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller, who has not pitched since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. Despite his injury issues, Miller has shown promise during his second major league season. He currently holds a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year.
Miller's return is a much-needed boost for the Dodgers' pitching staff, which has been plagued by injuries. His impressive rookie season in 2023 demonstrated his potential, and his presence will add depth to the roster.
Looking Forward
Despite his recent struggles, Buehler's career statistics remain impressive. Over seven seasons, he has accumulated a 47-20 record and a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers remain hopeful that a period of rest and recovery will enable him to return to his top form.
Buehler has shown remarkable resilience and a dedication to the team's future. Injuries are an inevitable part of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers have demonstrated their depth and flexibility in managing them. The activation of Bobby Miller to cover the loss of Buehler is a clear example of this adaptability.
All eyes will be on Buehler's recovery and eventual return to the mound. Manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about Buehler's healing process, saying, "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."
Buehler himself remains focused on contributing to the team. "It sucks to feel kind of invaluable, or like you're hampering your team," he admitted. "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."
As the Dodgers navigate this period of uncertainty, the resilience and adaptability of their roster will be key to their success. The team and its fans alike will be eagerly awaiting Buehler's recovery and are hopeful that he can once again become the dominant force on the mound that he was in previous seasons.