The Philadelphia Phillies have officially signed right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler, according to a report by The Athletic’s Matt Gelb. This agreement will be finalized once Buehler, who is represented by Excel Sports Management, successfully passes a physical examination. Notably, Buehler's addition to the Phillies comes just in time, as he is eligible to be included on the playoff roster due to joining the team before the crucial September 1 deadline.
Gelb had previously reported Philadelphia’s interest in Buehler earlier in the day. This signing comes on the heels of the Boston Red Sox releasing Buehler just two days ago, marking an abrupt end to their partnership. Buehler had signed a one-year, $21.05 million free agent contract with the Red Sox last winter, but with approximately $3.4 million remaining on that deal, the Red Sox will continue to bear most of that financial burden. The Phillies will only owe Buehler the prorated portion of the MLB minimum salary, making this a low-risk signing for Philadelphia.
Walker Buehler is undoubtedly a player with immense potential, but his recent performance has raised concerns. This season, he has recorded a 5.45 ERA, a 16.5% strikeout rate, and a 10.8% walk rate over 112 1/3 innings pitched, surrendering 22 home runs to opposing batters. These statistics are reminiscent of his regular-season performance in 2024, where he posted a 5.35 ERA over 75 1/3 innings with the Los Angeles Dodgers as he attempted to return from Tommy John surgery.
It is worth noting that this was Buehler's second Tommy John procedure, and his performance since the surgery has been shaky at best. However, he did show glimpses of his former All-Star self during the Dodgers’ playoff run in 2024, where he pitched 10 shutout innings across three appearances, ultimately helping Los Angeles secure the championship. His standout moment was securing the save in the clinching Game Five, which might indicate that he still has the ability to perform under pressure.
The Phillies are likely viewing Buehler as a potential bullpen contributor for the upcoming playoffs, especially considering that their postseason rotation is already established. The loss of star pitcher Zack Wheeler for the season significantly impacted the team's pitching strategy, but there are still ample starting options available, including Cristopher Sanchez, Ranger Suarez, Jesus Luzardo, Aaron Nola, and Taijuan Walker.
Prior to Wheeler's injury, the Phillies were contemplating a six-man rotation for September. Buehler may be given the opportunity to start a game or two in order to reduce the innings burden on the other starters, after which he could transition into a relief role as the playoffs approach.
With a comfortable 6.5-game lead over the New York Mets in the NL East, the Phillies have some flexibility to use September as a testing ground for optimizing their playoff roster. Should Buehler’s struggles continue, the team can opt to exclude him from the postseason roster without significant financial repercussions, aside from his minimal salary.
As for Walker Buehler's future beyond this season, it may be premature to draw conclusions regarding his free-agent prospects. At just 31 years old, Buehler will be eager to reestablish himself as a starting pitcher, likely seeking another one-year deal (though for considerably less than the $21.05 million he previously commanded). If he performs well in a relief role with the Phillies, it could create an intriguing scenario that would elevate interest in his market moving forward.
