Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
The Los Angeles Dodgers have sent Walker Buehler back to the injured list due to inflammation in his right hip. This is a setback Buehler surely hoped to avoid after spending most of 2022 and all of 2023 recovering from a second Tommy John surgery. Unfortunately, the right-hander has struggled to regain his once-dominant form.
From 2018 to 2021, Buehler was a cornerstone in the Dodgers' rotation, winning 39 games and never posting an ERA above 3.44. His consistent performances made him one of the team's most reliable arms. However, 2024 has proven to be a challenging season for Buehler as he attempts to bounce back from his surgeries and previous injury woes.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since making his return on May 8, 2024, Buehler has struggled significantly. He has recorded a 1-4 record with an alarming 5.84 ERA across eight starts. His recent outing in Colorado was emblematic of his difficulties. During that game, Buehler took a line drive off his hip but chose to remain in the game. Despite his determination, he allowed seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs.
Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts revealed that Buehler’s hip had been sore for several starts. The team hopes that a stint on the injured list will help him regroup both physically and mentally. "I think [he's] a little bit sort of finding himself again,” Roberts said. “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."
Bobby Miller Activated
As a corresponding move, the Dodgers have activated Bobby Miller. The young pitcher has not taken the mound since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. In his second major league season, Miller has shown promise, with a 1-1 record and a 5.40 ERA over three starts this year. His rookie season in 2023 was impressive, and his return adds much-needed depth to a Dodgers pitching staff that has been plagued by injuries.
Looking Forward
Despite his recent struggles, Buehler's career statistics remain impressive. Over seven seasons, he has compiled a 47-20 record with a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers remain hopeful that rest and recovery will enable him to return to his previous top form. Buehler has shown resilience and remains dedicated to the team's success.
“It sucks to feel kind of invaluable, or like you're hampering your team," Buehler said. "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."
Depth and Flexibility
Injuries are an inevitable part of Major League Baseball, but the Dodgers have consistently demonstrated their depth and flexibility. Bobby Miller stepping up helps cover the loss of Walker Buehler, and the team remains a strong contender. All eyes will be on Buehler’s recovery and hopeful return to the mound later in the season.
While Walker Buehler’s journey back to full strength continues, the Dodgers will rely on their roster’s versatility to navigate the remainder of the season. The hope is that with adequate rest and rehabilitation, Buehler will once again be the dominant pitcher fans have come to know and respect.