Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed Walker Buehler on the injured list due to right hip inflammation. This development comes as another setback for the pitcher who, after a second Tommy John surgery, missed most of the 2022 season and all of 2023.
Buehler has faced significant challenges in his attempt to regain the form that made him a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation from 2018 to 2021. During that period, he won 39 games and maintained an ERA never above 3.44. However, his performance since returning in 2024 has not met those high standards, and recent struggles have raised concerns about his fit in the rotation.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since his return on May 8, 2024, Buehler has managed a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA over eight starts. His latest outing in Colorado, where he was hit by a line drive on the hip but remained in the game, highlighted his ongoing difficulties. In that game, he allowed seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs, further emphasizing the current struggles in his pitching mechanics and overall form.
Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts mentioned that Buehler's hip had been sore for several starts. Roberts believes that utilizing the injured list will allow Buehler 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 explained.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers have activated Bobby Miller, who had been sidelined since April 10 with right shoulder inflammation. In his second major league season, Miller has shown promise. Although he has a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year, his impressive rookie year in 2023 demonstrated his potential and contributions to the team.
Miller's return provides much-needed depth to the Dodgers' pitching staff, which has been hampered by injuries. His presence will be vital as the team navigates the absence of Buehler and seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the league.
Looking Forward
Despite his recent struggles, Buehler's career statistics remain impressive. Over seven seasons, he has accumulated a 47-20 record with a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are optimistic that rest will enable Buehler to return to his top form, remembering his past resilience and dedication to the team's future.
Buehler himself expressed his frustrations and hopes: "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."
Injuries are an inevitable part of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers have demonstrated both depth and flexibility in handling such situations. Bobby Miller stepping up is a crucial element in covering for the loss of Buehler, and all eyes will be on Buehler's recovery and return.
As the season progresses, the Dodgers' ability to adapt and maintain their performance will be continuously tested. The team's success will depend significantly on the health and contributions of its players, including the awaited comeback of Walker Buehler. The Dodgers, their fans, and Buehler himself are hopeful that his time on the injured list will be a stepping stone to reclaiming his former dominance on the mound.