Walker Buehler’s stint in Boston hasn’t gone as hoped, and it’s becoming more obvious as the veteran right-hander starts to lose support from Red Sox fans.
June has been especially rough for Buehler, who has a 11.57 ERA this month and keeps putting Boston at a disadvantage when he’s on the mound.
Manager Alex Cora has stuck with the veteran, but for how long? If the Red Sox decide to move on, Buehler could end up back with the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are looking to add arms to their pitching staff.
Why the Dodgers Might Be Interested in Reuniting With Walker Buehler
For all his struggles in Boston, Buehler still checks boxes come October, and the Dodgers know that better than anyone. He’s a proven postseason arm and was a trusted part of their 2024 championship run.
In Game 3 of the World Series against the New York Yankees, he threw five scoreless innings, then came out of the bullpen in Game 5 to close it out and seal the title.
Walker Buehler had the worst regular season of his career.
He was starting for the Dodgers in October out of necessity.
He pitched 5 shutout innings in Game 3 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium.2 days later, he got the final 3 outs to win it all.pic.twitter.com/IAPdXFA8o8
— Noah Camras (@noahcamras) October 31, 2024
With his history in Los Angeles and the Dodgers’ need for reliable arms, Buehler makes sense as a fit if he’s available. He spent seven seasons with the team, worked through their farm system, and knows the ballpark and clubhouse well. There wouldn’t be much of an adjustment period.
In 19 postseason appearances, he has a strong 3.04 ERA, proving he can perform under pressure. With L.A.’s rotation looking shaky, Buehler could give them a short-term lift.
How Has Walker Buehler Performed for the Red Sox in 2025?
The Red Sox signed Buehler in the offseason to a one-year, $21.05 million deal after a strong playoff run with the Dodgers, where he finished with 10 straight scoreless innings.
So far, that gamble hasn’t worked out. His performance has dipped. In 13 starts, he has a 6.29 ERA over just 63 innings. His fastball velocity is also down, now averaging 94 mph and ranking in the 44th percentile.
Even with a shaky first half in 2025, Buehler has shown he can be dependable in October.
His ERA is a problem now, but that stat carries less weight in the playoffs, where experience matters most. If Boston decides to cut ties, don’t be shocked if the Dodgers are first in line to bring him home.