Walker Buehler Still Hoping to Add More Velocity as Return to Dodgers Nears

Los Angeles Dodgers ace Walker Buehler hopes to hit one more step before returning to the big leagues. To this point, Buehler has spent his 2024 season in rehab mode. He’s had some great outings, and some have been a bit shaky; however, one thing that has kept him up is ensuring his velocity is competitive.

Walker Buehler's long-awaited Dodgers return might be delayed - Los Angeles  Times

In a recent interview with Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times, Buehler said his mission is to add more velocity before returning to a major league mound.

“I think everyone hopes the adrenaline [of a major league game] will make you throw harder. My velo has been OK, but maybe we’ll get a tick or a little bump. You guys have seen me for a few years and know that I’m pretty emotional [on the mound], so I think I’m definitely excited to feel everything again.”

In 2022, Buehler’s last healthy season with the Dodgers, his fastball velocity averaged 95.2 mph, which ranked in the 72nd percentile among all MLB pitchers. In his rehab starts, his four-seamer has touched 95.9 mph. Clearly, Buehler feels he has more speed he can unlock.

In different circumstances, the Dodgers might try to justify ending Buehler’s rehab now and inserting him in their starting rotation. However, manager Dave Roberts isn’t rushing him back if he believes he isn’t ready.

“We’re just trying to figure out where he is physically. The pitch count is getting up. The stuff was much better [last week], arguably as good as it’s been in a long time. So that’s good. He just couldn’t land the curveball. I appreciate he was making an effort to do that. But the [between-starts] bullpen was good, so he’s in a really good spot. But to get him up and down five times in his next outing, I think, will be very helpful.”

The two-time All-Star is near the end of his recovery from Tommy John surgery and a flexor tendon repair, which he underwent in June 2022. His return is imminent; all we have to do is wait. He could be back as early as next week.

Related Posts

Steelers work out former third-round OT, Pro Bowl LS

Despite filling their remaining roster spot on Sunday with the activation of defensive lineman Dean Lowry, the Steelers still took the time to work out four more players per NFL…

New eyeglasses give Kiké Hernández a new outlook on hitting

Turns out, his brand-new eyeglasses might be partially to thank. In a subtle change that has had a profound impact on his once-slumping season, Hernández started wearing…

Yankees’ Giancarlo Stanton gets 100% real about Aaron Judge treatment

Opposing teams intentionally walking New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge has been a hot topic as of late, and for much of the season, Giancarlo Stanton has taken advantage of the runners on…

Cubs Sign Josh Staumont to Minor-League Deal

The Chicago Cubs are making up for the inactivity of the offseason with their signings during the season. This time, reliever Josh Staumont is joining the organization on a minor-league contract….

Jarren Duran apologizes for using homophobic slur at fan, Red Sox issue statement

Following his incident on Sunday where he was heard uttering an insensitive, homophobic slur towards a fan, OF Jarren Duran along with the Boston Red Sox have each shared statements…

Yankees’ Aaron Judge confronts annoying trend after win vs. Rangers

Intentional walks might be an important baseball strategy, but excellent hitters might also not like it. Still, all that matters in the game is your team winning,…