Walker Buehler’s Boston Red Sox tenure was without much fanfare. The highlight was a seven-inning, one-run performance against the Chicago White Sox on Patriots’ Day. The lowlight was almost every start that followed.
In August, Buehler was moved to the bullpen and made one outing before he was unceremoniously designated for assignment. After going unclaimed, he was picked up by the Philadelphia Phillies on a minor league contract.
With his Red Sox stint behind him, Buehler has turned around his season. In 13 2/3 innings over three appearances, Buehler has only allowed one run. His walk rate remains an issue at 10.5%, but he’s been productive for Philadelphia.
On Thursday, Buehler threw five shutout innings for the Phillies against the Miami Marlins. He pitched through traffic, but avoided the blow-up inning that plagued him during his time in Boston.
Data doesn’t show any meaningful changes to his release or arm slot, but Philadelphia does have him throwing more sinkers to right-handed hitters. His sinker has the lowest average and highest strike rate of any of his pitches to righties and should work as a pitch to create quick outs.
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Against lefties, Buehler has increased his changeup usage and generated whiffs with the pitch. He still doesn’t look like the dominant pitcher he once was, but he’s been able to navigate three innings without a disaster.
Because Buehler signed with the Phillies before September, he’s eligible for the postseason. While he won’t be a frontline starter, he’s turned in excellent playoff performances throughout his career. He’s a free agent after the season, though he might have a harder time parlaying a strong October into a $20 million contract this time around.
Featured image via Bill Streicher/Imagn Images
