The fate of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series free agents is uncertain, particularly regarding their starting pitching staff. After contributing to a championship, many players would naturally want to stay with their team. However, the Dodgers may struggle to accommodate their free agents, especially in the pitching department, given their already crowded rotation. With Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell as key rotation pieces, the Dodgers are nearing the completion of their pitching staff. This does not account for the potential return of Walker Buehler, a lifelong Dodger and two-time All-Star.
Buehler, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, had a challenging regular season with a 5.38 ERA in 75 1/3 innings. However, he demonstrated his postseason prowess, finishing the year with a 13-inning scoreless streak and lowering his career playoff ERA to 3.04, solidifying his reputation as one of October’s most reliable pitchers. On Friday, Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer speculated that Buehler might sign a three-year, $45 million contract with the Chicago Cubs, including player options for 2026 and 2027.
Buehler’s performance between 2018 and 2021, with a 2.82 ERA and a dominant strikeout-to-walk ratio, showcased his elite skills. While he may not be the same pitcher today, there remains the possibility that he could regain his former form. Buehler is comparable to Jack Flaherty, who was highly sought after in the 2023-24 market, despite uncertainty surrounding his long-term value. For teams like the Cubs, who are working with a tighter budget but are aiming to contend in the National League Central, Buehler presents an intriguing option.
For the Dodgers, unless they are willing to offer mid-rotation money to keep Buehler at the back end of their rotation, they may need to rely on his postseason heroics and hope that he doesn’t become a thorn in their side if he excels elsewhere.
