Walker Buehler's recent optimism could help Red Sox rotation in the offseason
After his recent start against the Baltimore Orioles on Aug. 28, Walker Buehler put himself on track to finish the 2024 season strong and rebuild his value in free agency. And the Boston Red Sox should consider signing him in the offseason.
Buehler stayed steady for the Dodgers despite the Orioles’ early threats and Dodgers' defensive blunders. He ended up allowing four runs (two earned) on five hits and a walk, which was his best pitching performance this month. That's not exactly saying much, but after the game, Buehler reported feeling more hopeful than ever about his future.
“I was encouraged as I've been since 2021,” he said. “I felt like I could get guys out. I felt very competitive.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts applauded Buehler’s performance in the post-game debrief. “This is the first night I’ve seen the delivery [and] the tempo synched up. The ball was coming out really well." Later, he remarked, “Gosh, we haven’t seen that in quite some time.”
In 2022, Buehler underwent two elbow surgeries (arthroscopic and Tommy John) that sidelined him until 2024. Buehler has struggled to regain his footing this year, posting a 1-4 record with a 5.88 ERA and only 38 strikeouts. After Wednesday’s game, the veteran righty is looking to turn his season around quickly.
With his renewed confidence, the Red Sox should consider Buehler as a low-risk, high-reward option to help improve and deepen their starting rotation.
The Sox have an unpredictable starting rotation once the 2024 season concludes. From their current roster, Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford and Tanner Houck figure to be the main fixtures. Nick Pivetta will become an unrestricted free agent and may not return. Lucas Giolito will bring experience to the rotation, but his performance is unknown after missing the 2024 season to recover from a torn UCL. Fans can't expect Rich Hill or James Paxton to return. As for Cooper Criswell, he shouldn't be viewed as a rotation option if the Red Sox are serious about contending. He has a role on this team, but not as a starter.
While they work to establish a core starting rotation in the long term, Boston should strongly consider signing Buehler, a prime bounce-back candidate, to a short-term contract to insure themselves against injuries. Buehler might not have it all figured out right now, but neither do the Sox. As the two-time All-Star and 2020 World Series winner anticipates returning to his previous ace form, the Sox could acquire a pitcher with proven success at a low price tag as long as they can stomach his lengthy injury history and hope most of it is in the rearview.