Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
Walker Buehler is back on the injured list, this time due to right hip inflammation. After missing most of the 2022 season and all of 2023 following a second Tommy John surgery, Buehler has struggled to regain his former dominance.
From 2018 to 2021, Buehler was a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation, winning 39 games while posting an ERA that never rose above 3.44. However, this season has been a different story.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since his return on May 8, 2024, Buehler has recorded a 1-4 record with a dismal 5.84 ERA over eight starts. His latest outing in Colorado was particularly concerning. Despite taking a line drive off his hip, Buehler stayed in the game but surrendered seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented that Buehler's hip had been sore for several starts. Roberts hopes the injured list will give Buehler the opportunity to regroup both physically and mentally.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers have activated Bobby Miller, who has not pitched since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. Miller, in his second major league season, has shown promise. He has a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year, following an impressive rookie campaign in 2023.
Miller's return should add some much-needed depth to the Dodgers' pitching staff, which has been plagued by injuries this season.
Looking Forward
Despite Buehler's recent struggles, his career statistics remain impressive. Over seven seasons, he has a 47-20 record with a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are hopeful that rest and recovery will help Buehler return to top form. Buehler has shown resilience and dedication to the team's future, aiming to be ready for the critical end-of-year games.
In Major League Baseball, injuries are an inevitable part of the game. The Dodgers have demonstrated depth and flexibility in dealing with these setbacks. Bobby Miller stepping up to cover the loss of Buehler is a clear example of this adaptability.
All eyes will be on Buehler's recovery and eventual return. The Dodgers are optimistic about his ability to bounce back.
Dave Roberts said, "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 expressed his frustration, saying, "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."
Walker Buehler's ability to overcome adversity has defined his career so far. As he navigates this latest challenge, the Dodgers and their fans remain hopeful that he will return stronger and ready to contribute when it matters most.