Philadelphia Phillies Secure Walker Buehler
The Philadelphia Phillies have reached a contractual agreement with the experienced right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler, according to a source close to the negotiation.
Buehler, known for his outstanding performance, including the last out in the victory of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series last season, was shaping up to be an essential member of Boston’s rotation this year.
However, he was released on Friday after the Red Sox concluded that he would not be able to contribute significantly to their playoff push from the bullpen.
At 31 years old, Buehler has faced difficulties since signing a $21.05 million contract with Boston, accumulating a 7-7 record with an ERA of 5.45. Before being relegated to the bullpen last week, he made 22 starts. In his only appearance as a reliever after earning a save in Game 5 of the Series, he allowed two runs in 2 and one-third innings in a loss to the New York Yankees.
Buehler, a two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, boasts a 54-29 record in 144 starts during his eight seasons in the Major Leagues. Although he struggled last year after undergoing his second Tommy John surgery, he managed to pitch a perfect ninth inning in the decisive game of the Series, just two days after pitching five scoreless innings as a starter in Game 3.
