Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced that Walker Buehler is headed to the injured list due to right hip inflammation. This setback arrives after Buehler missed most of the 2022 season and the entirety of the 2023 season following his second Tommy John surgery. The once-dominant pitcher has struggled to regain his stellar form from 2018 to 2021, a period during which he was a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation. Now, the team looks to regroup as Buehler aims to recover and rediscover his past excellence.
From 2018 to 2021, Buehler was a force to be reckoned with, winning 39 games and recording an ERA never above 3.44. As a result, he became a linchpin for the Dodgers. However, his comeback in 2024 has been challenging, marked by physical and performance struggles.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since May 8, 2024, Buehler has posted a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA across eight starts. His latest outing in Colorado exemplified his difficulties. Despite taking a line drive off the hip, Buehler stayed in the game but surrendered seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs. According to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Buehler’s hip had been sore for several starts. Roberts wants his pitcher to use the time on the injured list 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 said.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller. Miller has not pitched since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. Despite his absence, Miller has shown promise in his second major league season. He has a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year, and his return adds much-needed depth to a Dodgers pitching staff that has been plagued by injuries.
Miller had an impressive rookie year in 2023, and the Dodgers hope that he can step up in Buehler's absence. His return signifies the depth and flexibility that the Dodgers have demonstrated over recent years. Miller stepping up helps cover the loss of Buehler and offers the team some stability.
Looking Forward
Buehler's career statistics remain impressive despite his recent struggles. Over seven seasons, he has compiled a 47-20 record and a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are hopeful that rest will help him return to top form. Buehler's resilience and dedication to the team's future are clear as he navigates this challenging period.
"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.
Injuries are an inevitable part of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers have shown they can adapt when necessary. All eyes will be on Walker Buehler's recovery and return, with the hope that he can once again become the cornerstone of the rotation. In the meantime, the contributions from pitchers like Bobby Miller will be crucial as the Dodgers strive to maintain their competitive edge.