The Boston Red Sox made some good moves last winter, adding Alex Bregman, Garrett Crochet and Aroldis Chapman. Unfortunately, signing Walker Buehler wasn’t one of them.
Just two months after helping the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the New York Yankees in the World Series, Buehler inked a one-year, $21.05 million deal with the Red Sox. Although he’d struggled in 2024, going 1-6 with a 5.38 ERA and -1.2 WAR, Boston bet on the two-time All-Star to bounce back.
It didn’t happen. Buehler’s struggles persisted, as he went 7-7 with a 5.45 ERA and -0.9 WAR. The Red Sox remained patient with him for much of the season before finally moving on in late August, releasing him on Aug. 29.
The two-time World Series champion signed a Minor League deal with the Philadelphia Phillies on Aug. 31, making him eligible to pitch in the postseason for the NL East division leaders.
Alex Cora was surprisingly happy to see Buehler get another opportunity with the Phillies, where he’ll have a chance to make an impact in October and potentially win another World Series ring (potentially at Boston’s expense if they meet in the Fall Classic).
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“I’m glad that he landed with the Phillies. He’s gonna be OK. … He’s a pro,” Cora said. “He’s a guy that I really respect, very smart kid. I believe he’s gonna help the Phillies win a lot of games over there.”
Buehler’s postseason experience could come in handy for Philadelphia, which is seeking its first World Series title since 2008. He pitched well in the playoffs last year after struggling during the regular season, so perhaps he’ll have a similar resurgence in October.
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In 94 2/3 postseason innings, the 31-year-old righty is 4-4 with a 3.04 ERA, a 1.15 WHIP and a 10.8 K/9.
Given Buehler’s playoff track record, taking a flyer on him is a good move by the Phillies. He wasn’t working out with the Red Sox and was visibly frustrated by his poor performance, but perhaps a break and a change of scenery will help him return to form.
Featured image via D. Ross Cameron/USA TODAY Sports
