Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
Walker Buehler, the Los Angeles Dodgers' formidable right-hander, finds himself back on the injured list due to inflammation in his right hip. This development is yet another setback in a career that has recently been marred by health issues. Buehler, who missed the majority of the 2022 season and the entirety of 2023 after undergoing his second Tommy John surgery, has struggled to regain his dominant form from 2018 to 2021.
Challenges Since His Comeback
From 2018 to 2021, Buehler was a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation, winning 39 games and posting an ERA that never exceeded 3.44. However, his comeback in 2024 has been less than stellar. Since May 8, 2024, Buehler has managed just a 1-4 record with a dismal 5.84 ERA over eight starts. His most recent start in Colorado highlighted his struggles, as he took a line drive off the hip but stayed in the game, ultimately surrendering seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs. Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts noted that Buehler’s hip had been sore for several starts, and the decision to put him on the injured list is aimed at allowing him to regroup both physically and mentally.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller, who himself has been sidelined since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. Miller, now in his second major league season, has shown that he has the potential to contribute effectively. Despite his own injury woes this year, Miller has posted a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts. His return to the rotation is a much-needed boost for a Dodgers pitching staff that has been plagued by injuries.
Miller had an impressive rookie season in 2023, and his activation adds depth to the Dodgers’ roster at a critical time. The team is hopeful that Miller’s return, along with the eventual recovery of Buehler, will stabilize their pitching lineup for the remainder of the season.
Looking Forward
Despite his recent struggles, Buehler’s career statistics remain impressive. Over seven seasons, he boasts a 47-20 record with a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are optimistic that a period of rest will enable Buehler to return to top form. His resilience and dedication to the team's future are evident, and while injuries are an unfortunate reality in Major League Baseball, the Dodgers have demonstrated remarkable depth and flexibility.
With Bobby Miller stepping up to fill the void left by Buehler, there is cautious optimism within the Dodgers' camp. All eyes will be on Buehler's recovery and eventual return to the mound. Manager Dave Roberts summarized the situation by 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."
Walker Buehler also shared his thoughts, expressing a mix of frustration and determination. "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.
The Dodgers will need Buehler at his best if they hope to make a deep postseason run. His ability to recover and return to his previous form could be the difference-maker for the team. As the season progresses, the focus will undoubtedly be on his rehabilitation and eventual comeback, alongside the contributions of players like Bobby Miller who are stepping up in the meantime.
Injuries may be inevitable, but the depth and resilience of this Dodgers team give them a fighting chance to overcome these challenges. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the rotation's stability and the team's overall success as they aim for another championship run.