Walker Buehler Returns to the Injured List
In a setback for the Los Angeles Dodgers, pitcher Walker Buehler is back on the injured list, this time due to right hip inflammation. The move comes as an unwelcome development for the player and the team, disrupting their plans for a solid rotation as they gear up for the season's critical months.
Buehler missed the majority of the 2022 season and was sidelined for all of 2023 after undergoing his second Tommy John surgery. Once a force to be reckoned with, he has struggled to recapture his dominant form exhibited from 2018 to 2021. During those impressive four years, he notched 39 wins and maintained an ERA that never rose above 3.44, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the Dodgers' rotation.
2024 Struggles After Comeback
Since making his comeback on May 8, 2024, Buehler's performance has been inconsistent. Over eight starts, he has accumulated a 1-4 record with a 5.84 ERA, far below his career standards. His latest outing in Colorado exposed his current struggles dramatically. Despite taking a line drive off the hip, he remained in the game, only to surrender seven runs on seven hits, including two home runs.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed that Buehler's hip had been sore for several starts, which may have contributed to his lackluster performance. Roberts emphasized the benefits of utilizing the injured list, aiming for Buehler to regroup both physically and mentally. "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," Roberts stated.
Bobby Miller Activated
In a corresponding move to Buehler's placement on the injured list, the Dodgers activated Bobby Miller. The young pitcher, who has not pitched since April 10 due to right shoulder inflammation, is ready to make a return. Despite his latest bout of injuries, Miller has shown signs of promise in his second major league season. So far this year, he holds a 1-1 record with a 5.40 ERA over three starts, building on an impressive rookie campaign in 2023.
Miller's return is timely, bringing much-needed depth to a Dodgers' pitching staff that has been riddled with injuries. The Dodgers hope that Miller can step up and perform well, helping to mitigate the impact of Buehler's absence. His ability to handle the challenge will be crucial for the Dodgers in the coming weeks.
Looking Forward
Despite his recent struggles, Buehler's career statistics remain commendable. Over seven seasons, he boasts a 47-20 record with a solid 3.17 ERA. The Dodgers are optimistic that giving Buehler time to rest will aid in his recovery and allow him to return to his top form.
Buehler has consistently shown resilience and dedication to the team's future. Talking about his situation, he admitted, "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."
Injuries are an inevitable aspect of Major League Baseball, but the Dodgers have displayed remarkable depth and flexibility in coping with such setbacks. Bobby Miller's activation and potential contributions serve as a testament to the team's resilience.
All eyes will now be on Buehler's recovery and eventual return to the mound. The Dodgers, along with their fans, hope that this period of rest and recuperation will enable Buehler to rediscover the form that made him one of the most reliable pitchers in the league. Meanwhile, the team's focus will be on maintaining their competitive edge, with key players like Miller stepping up to fill the void.