Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
Walker Buehler, the dynamo right-hander of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has once again found his place on the injured list. This time, due to right hip inflammation—a blow that's felt keenly by both the player and the team. Buehler's journey has been turbulent, missing a significant portion of the 2022 season and the entirety of 2023 after undergoing a second Tommy John surgery. His struggles to recapture the form he exhibited from 2018 to 2021 have been palpable since his return.
From 2018 to 2021, Buehler was a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ rotation, racking up 39 wins with an ERA never rising above 3.44. His consistency and reliability on the mound made him an indispensable asset. Yet, the comeback trail has been rocky for Buehler.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since May 8, 2024, Buehler has posted a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA over eight starts. The recent outing in Colorado underscored his struggles. Staying in the game after taking a line drive off his hip, he ultimately surrendered seven runs on seven hits, which included two home runs. Manager Dave Roberts mentioned that Buehler’s hip had been a lingering issue for several starts. This latest trip to the injured list serves as an opportunity for Buehler to regroup, both physically and mentally.
“I think he’s a little bit sort of finding himself again,” Roberts said candidly. “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 a deep sense of frustration. “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.”
Bobby Miller Activated
To fill the void left by Buehler, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller. The promising right-hander had been sidelined since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. Now in his second major league season, Miller has shown real potential. Though he has a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year, he had an impressive rookie season in 2023. His return adds sorely needed depth to a Dodgers pitching staff that has been besieged by injuries.
Miller’s activation is timely, and his performance will be under close scrutiny. With the rotation in flux, his ability to adapt and deliver will be critical for the Dodgers' ongoing campaign. Management and fans alike are hopeful that Miller’s return can mitigate the impact of Buehler’s absence.
Looking Forward
Despite the recent bumps in the road, Buehler’s career statistics remain commendable. Over seven seasons, he has amassed a 47-20 record with a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are optimistic that a period of rest will facilitate his return to top form. His resilience and commitment to the team's future are evident.
Injuries are an unavoidable aspect of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers have exhibited remarkable depth and flexibility in navigating these challenges. Bobby Miller stepping up to cover for Buehler illustrates the organization's ability to adapt under pressure. All eyes will be on Buehler's recovery and eventual return to the mound.
The Dodgers’ strategy hinges not just on their stars but on the competence of their entire roster. This holistic approach has often translated into success. While Buehler works towards reclaiming his previous dominance, the club continues to march forward, buoyed by young talents like Miller and the collective strength of their pitching staff.
Buehler’s fans and teammates alike are eagerly anticipating his comeback. As Dave Roberts aptly put it, the time off might be exactly what he needs to reset, both mentally and physically, paving the way for a stronger finish to the 2024 season. For now, the focus remains on recovery and readiness for the crucial end-of-year games, where Buehler hopes to once again prove his value to the team.