The San Diego Padres have signed former Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Walker Buehler to a minor-league contract. This move adds a familiar face to the Padres’ starting rotation competition as Buehler looks to revive his career following recent setbacks.
Buehler, 31, was once a premier National League pitcher before undergoing a second Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2023 season. His recent performances have been inconsistent; he posted a 5.38 ERA over 16 starts in the 2024 regular season but delivered a strong postseason, including five shutout innings in Game 3 of the World Series. Notably, he secured the final three outs of the Dodgers’ championship-clinching Game 5.
Before joining the Padres organization, Buehler signed a one-year, $21.05 million contract with the Boston Red Sox for the 2025 season. However, he was released in August after registering a 5.45 ERA in 112⅓ innings across 22 starts and a relief appearance. Subsequently, he completed the season with the Philadelphia Phillies, allowing only one run in 13⅔ innings over two starts and one relief outing.
Historically, Buehler has had notable success against the Padres, boasting a 7-1 record and a 1.67 ERA in 13 starts. His career ERA until 2022 was an impressive 3.02 across his first six seasons. Since his 2022 return from surgery, he has experienced diminished fastball velocity and command. This decline is evident in his strikeout and walk rates, with strikeouts dropping from 27% to 17.2% and walks increasing from 6.3% to 9.8%.
Buehler’s addition intensifies the Padres’ starting rotation competition, joining pitchers Matt Waldron, Triston McKenzie, Germán Márquez, and left-handers JP Sears and Marco Gonzales. The battle appears focused on securing a likely single available rotation spot.
The Padres’ decision to include Buehler in their rotation mix highlights their willingness to take a calculated risk on a veteran pitcher with a history of dominance. Should Buehler regain his pre-injury form, he could provide valuable depth and experience to the pitching staff.
This signing signals the Padres’ strategic approach to bolstering their roster by blending emerging talent with seasoned players. Buehler’s track record against the Padres may also provide a psychological edge should he secure a rotation spot.
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