Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced that pitcher Walker Buehler is heading back to the injured list due to inflammation in his right hip. This return to the IL marks another setback for Buehler, who missed most of 2022 and the entirety of 2023 following his second Tommy John surgery. The once-dominant right-hander has struggled to regain the form that made him a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation from 2018 to 2021.
A Stellar Start Marred by Injuries
During his peak years from 2018 to 2021, Buehler was an essential part of the Dodgers' pitching staff, chalking up 39 wins with an ERA never surpassing 3.44. His dominance on the mound was a significant factor in the Dodgers' success during that period. However, his recent struggles underscore the challenges he has faced in his attempts to return to form post-surgery.
Struggles in 2024
Since his comeback on May 8, 2024, Buehler has posted a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA over eight starts. His latest outing in Colorado highlighted these struggles, where 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 revealed that Buehler has been dealing with hip pain for several starts. "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."
Roberts emphasized that the move to the injured list is intended to allow Buehler to regroup physically and mentally, with the hope that rest will enable him to recover effectively. Buehler himself expressed the emotional toll of his recent performance: "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
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller, who has been sidelined since April 10 with right shoulder inflammation. In his second major league season, Miller has shown promise despite recent setbacks. He holds a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA in three starts this year. His rookie year in 2023 was impressive, and his return adds much-needed depth to the Dodgers' injury-riddled pitching staff.
Adding Depth to the Rotation
Miller's activation is a strategic move that aims to cover the loss of Buehler and provide stability to the rotation. His potential and prior performances offer hope that he can help mitigate the impact of Buehler’s absence.
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 this period of rest will allow him to return to top form. Buehler’s resilience and dedication to his team’s future are evident, and although injuries are an inevitable part of Major League Baseball, the Dodgers' ability to demonstrate depth and flexibility remains crucial.
The team, boosted by Bobby Miller stepping up, has shown its capacity to handle such obstacles. All eyes will be on Buehler’s recovery process and his eventual return to the mound, as his performance and health will be critical for the Dodgers' aspirations this season.
As Dave Roberts aptly put it, “[Walker’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’s candid remarks reflect his commitment: "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." The Dodgers and their fans eagerly anticipate his comeback, hoping for a return to the dominance that once defined him.