In a shocking turn of events, the Boston Red Sox have released starting pitcher Walker Buehler. The former Los Angeles Dodgers World Series Champion is now out on the open market.
The Boston Red Sox released veteran right-hander Walker Buehler.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) August 29, 2025
The 31-year-old right-hander has spent his entire career in the Dodgers organization until signing with the Red Sox this past offseason, signing a one-year, $20.05 million deal.
So far this season, Buehler has struggled to a 7-7 record with a 5.45 ERA. Outside of his rookie year, where he only pitched 9.1 innings, his 2025 WHIP of 1.56 (along with his ERA) is the worst of his career.
Last season’s stats with the Dodgers were actually not all that different. He had a 5.38 ERA and a 1.55 WHIP. However, he shone in the postseason and was one of the key pitchers in bringing the World Series trophy back to Los Angeles.
In 15 playoff innings, he garnered a 3.60 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP.
The hope was that his postseason success would carry over to a rebirth with a new team during the 2025 season. Unfortunately for Boston, it did not.
Should The Los Angeles Dodgers Bring Back Walker Buehler?
In order for Buehler to be eligible for the postseason with a new club, he will need to be signed by that organization by September 1st. The waiver process takes 48 hours, but it is unlikely that a team will claim him, given the poor performance this season. He is also still due $3.4 million of his contract.
Love Shohei Ohtani? Check Out This New Custom Design!
However, if/when he does clear, he will be a free agent, and the Dodgers will have the opportunity to sign him. The timeline will be tight, perhaps less than 24 hours, depending on when the Red Sox posted the transaction, so the Dodgers would have to act fast.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Clayton Kershaw have been leading the way for the pitching rotation.
Shohei Ohtani has been looking great, but Dave Roberts is still limiting his innings.
Blake Snell has just gotten back into the lineup, and Tyler Glasnow is still finding his groove after returning from injury.
With how many injuries the Dodgers have dealt with this season, it would not be the worst idea to bring home a familiar arm.