Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
Walker Buehler, the Los Angeles Dodgers' standout pitcher, is heading back to the injured list due to right hip inflammation. This marks another challenging chapter in Buehler's career, following a tumultuous period marked by significant injury struggles.
Buehler missed most of the 2022 season and the entirety of 2023 after undergoing a second Tommy John surgery. Renowned for his dominance from 2018 to 2021, Buehler was a linchpin in the Dodgers' rotation, winning 39 games and maintaining an ERA never exceeding 3.44.
However, his comeback in 2024 has been fraught with difficulties.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since his return on May 8, 2024, Buehler has struggled to regain his previous form. In eight starts, he has accumulated a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA. His most recent outing in Colorado highlighted these ongoing issues, as he allowed seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs.
During that game, Buehler took a line drive off his hip but chose to continue pitching, reflecting both his resilience and the severity of his condition. Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts noted that Buehler's hip had been sore for several starts. Roberts emphasized that placing Buehler on the injured list would provide him with the opportunity to recuperate both physically and mentally.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller, who had been sidelined since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation. In his second major league season, Miller has already shown considerable promise. Despite a challenging start this year, with a 1-1 record and a 5.40 ERA in three starts, his impressive rookie performance in 2023 bodes well for his future contributions.
Miller's return adds much-needed depth to a Dodgers pitching staff that has been significantly impacted by injuries.
Looking Forward
Despite recent struggles, Buehler's career statistics remain impressive. Over his seven seasons in the MLB, he has amassed a 47-20 record and a 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers organization remains hopeful that a period of rest will enable Buehler to return to his top form.
Buehler has demonstrated resilience and dedication to the team's future, qualities that are invaluable in the high-stakes environment of Major League Baseball. Injuries are an inevitable aspect of the sport, and the Dodgers have shown their depth and flexibility in managing these challenges. With Bobby Miller stepping up to fill the void left by Buehler, the team aims to remain competitive in the interim.
All eyes will be on Buehler's recovery and eventual return. The Dodgers and their fans are eager to see him regain his form and contribute significantly to the team's success.
Comments From the Manager and Buehler
Addressing Buehler's condition and the decision to place him on the injured list, Dave Roberts remarked, "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."
Buehler himself expressed mixed emotions about the situation. "It sucks to feel kind of invaluable, or like you're hampering your team," he said. "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."
The journey to recovery is seldom straightforward, but with the support of his team and the proper rest, Buehler's return to form is eagerly anticipated.
As the Dodgers navigate this period of adjustment, the performance of emerging stars like Bobby Miller will be critical. The resilience and strategic depth of the team will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their continued pursuit of excellence.