Dave Roberts Provides Update on Walker Buehler Return Timeline for Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler continues to progress through his recovery as he plans to return to the starting rotation later this spring. The two-time All-Star hasn’t thrown a pitch for the Dodgers since June 2022, when he suffered a season-ending UCL tear.
Buehler would undergo Tommy John surgery — his second — and a flexor tendon repair. He missed the entire 2023 season and will not be able to play immediately in 2024.
Buehler has been making progress through his recovery. He threw his first live batting practice session a month ago. Since then, he has participated in more live batting practice sessions. His velocity has continued to improve, and his fastball has ticked 97 mph recently.
Most recently, Buehler threw a simulated game Monday at Dodger Stadium. Afterward, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts provided an update on how the session went, and the next step for Buehler.
“He threw four innings, right around 60 pitches. I thought he threw the ball well. I think the main thing from that is just to get him built up, to keep facing hitters. The next step for Walker will be a bullpen in two days, but I thought today was positive for Walker.”
— Dave Roberts, via SportsNet LA
Though the Dodgers won’t rush Buehler back, they know they’ll be getting a high level pitcher if Buehler returns to form. Right now, the Dodgers’ rotation consists of Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Bobby Miller, James Paxton and Gavin Stone.
In one of his best seasons in 2021, Buehler recorded a 2.47 ERA and a .97 WHIP.
Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
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