Dodgers News: Walker Buehler Might Not Be Cleared To Pitch By Opening Day

One of the biggest absences from the Dodgers’ roster in 2023 was starting pitcher Walker Buehler, who missed the entire season recovering from his second Tommy John surgery.

The 29-year-old right-hander made a push to return toward the end of the regular season, even making a rehabilitation start with Triple-A Oklahoma City. Ultimately, it was decided Buehler wouldn’t be fully ready to rejoin the Dodgers for the postseason. He was shut down because he effectively ran out of time, not because of a setback during his rehab process.

Buehler is expected to return to the starting rotation in 2024, and the Dodgers are very excited to have their ace back. He has been an ace-level pitcher in their rotation for years and was heavily missed last season. Their starters combined for a 4.57 ERA without Buehler in 2023, the highest by a Dodgers’ rotation since 1929.

However, there does seem to be a small hiccup in Buehler’s pending return. Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times is reporting that he might not be ready for Opening Day. This would throw a wrench in the plans of the Dodgers, but was always a possibility.

“In a notable development regarding the current roster, it is becoming increasingly likely that Walker Buehler might have a delayed start to his 2024 season, given he’ll be facing a likely innings limit in his return from a second Tommy John surgery.”

Per Jack Harris of The LA Times

The innings restriction the front office will likely place on Buehler is designed keep him healthy throughout the season. They need him ready for the stretch run and the postseason. Getting him to that point is the key.

If Buehler does miss the beginning of the season, that only puts more pressure on the front office to bring in quality arms this winter. They have already been aggressive in pursuing starting rotation help, having been linked to Dylan Cease and Corbin Burnes among other trade-eligible starters, but this further pushes the need.

With Buehler entering the final year of his contract, he will want to pitch as much as he possibly can to show he can still be an effective major league pitcher. He should be given every chance to succeed next season, even if it gets a little delayed.

Buehler has become a fan favorite in short order, and his next game at Dodger Stadium should be a must-see event.

Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

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