Dodgers: Walker Buehler Likely Will Not Follow Kershaw in the Rotation Early On

The Dodgers have been lucky enough to be healthy so far, positive COVID-19 tests aside. Aches and pains come with any sort of training camp but things have gone over as smooth as can be. 

Dave Roberts appeared in front of the media on Saturday to give a few updates on players trending a little bit behind everyone else. One of those guys was Walker Buehler, who Roberts expects will not be built up entirely by Opening Day.

Buehler will throw three innings against Dodgers hitters on Wednesday, one day before the opener. With that in mind, it looks like Buehler‘s turn in the rotation will not be right after Clayton Kershaw as expected. That leaves the door open for Walker to get the start against the Astros in Houston after the Giants’ series. 

Dave Roberts said Walker Buehler will throw three innings against Dodgers hitters Wednesday, the day before the season opener. He retired the seven hitters he faced in his first intrasquad appearance last night.

— Jorge Castillo (@jorgecastillo) July 18, 2020

That leaves the Dodgers rotation up for debate, but will likely have Ross Stripling following Clayton Kershaw. In the bullpen, Pedro Baez looks like he is progressing quickly enough to be able to crack the Opening Day roster. Roberts clarified that while Baez will not appear in a game, he will throw simulated games this week to be ready to go. 

In terms of overall health, the Dodgers are looking good per Roberts. No other players are reporting any other major issues, though Mookie did shake off his hand on a swing Friday. Doc said that it wasn’t enough to cause any sort of concern and that Betts is 100 percent fine. 

The Dodgers did option Tony Gonsolin to the alternate camp site on Saturday. Gonsolin had appeared much later than scheduled and found himself too far behind the other pitchers. He will work at the USC facility to stay ready and build up innings. 

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