Walker Buehler, the celebrated right-hander famed for his postseason heroics, is set to don the Boston Red Sox jersey after agreeing to terms on a one-year contract worth $21.05 million. This high-profile signing, which includes $2.5 million tied to performance incentives, marks another significant move by the Red Sox as they seek to strengthen their pitching staff for the 2025 season.
Buehler, 30, joins the Red Sox following his tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he became known for delivering clutch performances, especially during the playoff runs. Notably, Buehler recorded the final out of the 2024 World Series, clinching the title for the Dodgers against the New York Yankees. Despite his postseason success, the season leading up to the signing was filled with challenges for Buehler, who faced significant difficulties during the regular season.
After undergoing his second Tommy John surgery, Buehler's return to the mound was marred by inconsistency. He finished the 2024 season with a disappointing 1-6 record and a 5.38 ERA across 16 starts. His struggles were evident, as he also posted the lowest strikeout rate of his career at 7.6 strikeouts per nine innings, raising concerns about his form going forward.
Nevertheless, Buehler managed to turn things around when it counted most. He showcased his ability to shine on the big stage during the playoffs, where he recorded impressive numbers, including four shutout innings versus the Mets and five scoreless innings against the Yankees, all contributing to his status as one of the postseason's standout performers. Over 15 innings, Buehler maintained a 3.60 ERA during the playoffs, proving he is capable of rising to the occasion.
The Red Sox, who ranked 17th with a 4.04 ERA last season, are making moves to bolster their rotation. Along with Buehler, they recently acquired left-hander Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox and signed Patrick Sandoval, who is recovering from his own Tommy John surgery. With the addition of Buehler, the team's starting pitching now has fresh hope for improvement.
Boston’s rotation now looks much more compelling, featuring Buehler alongside Crochet, Tanner Houck, Brayan Bello, and Lucas Giolito. This revamped pitching staff is expected to fare far more favorably than the previous season's performance, as the Red Sox aim to bounce back from their third-place finish in the American League East last year.
General sentiment around the signing highlights the potential for Buehler to reclaim the dominance he exhibited from 2018 to 2021 when he was regarded as one of the game's best young starters, boasting standout numbers like his 2.47 ERA and 16 wins during the 2021 season. If he can regain his form, the Red Sox could benefit significantly from this signing.
Red Sox management is eager to see what Buehler can bring to Fenway Park, aware of the challenges faced by pitchers working within the AL East and hosting games at one of baseball’s most historic ballparks. His capacity to handle pressure, alongside the projected lineup of talented starters, positions Boston favorably heading toward the new season. Buehler, known not just for his pitching prowess but also for his mental toughness, might just be the key to unlocking the team’s competitive edge.
With Buehler on board, the Red Sox's payroll for 2025 rises to about $175 million, with still room to add to their roster, particularly as they look to find the right balance with right-handed bats to complement their lineup. Aiming to improve their standings and contend for the playoffs, the Red Sox will be counting on Buehler's experience and skills as they look to turn their fortunes around. The 2025 season could very well be the proving ground for both Buehler and the Red Sox, as they work together to forge a path to success.
