MLB
Dodgers cooling on Walker Buehler after signing Blake Snell
After the surprise blockbuster signing of Blake Snell by Los Angeles, reports are that interest in keeping Walker Buehler may be on the wane.
The Dodgers' recent moves have brought their future plans for Walker Buehler into question, especially after securing a five-year deal with Blake Snell. The decision to let Buehler enter free agency without extending a qualifying offer raised eyebrows, given his history as a clutch performer in the postseason. However, Buehler’s recent injury history, including two Tommy John surgeries and an underwhelming return during the 2024 regular season, appears to have made the Dodgers cautious. He posted a 5.38 ERA over 16 starts but regained form in the playoffs, delivering critical performances in the NLCS and World Series.
Snell’s addition, alongside a rotation already bolstered by Shohei Ohtani, Tyler Glasnow, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, reflects a shift in the Dodgers' strategy. They are focusing on durability and proven success, with Snell coming off a Cy Young-worthy season. The move signals the Dodgers’ willingness to invest heavily in pitching, as their luxury tax commitments climb past $300 million. This financial positioning, combined with Buehler’s uncertain long-term reliability, suggests the team is moving forward with new priorities.
Meanwhile, Buehler’s exit isn’t yet a certainty. He could re-sign under a more flexible, incentive-laden contract, but for now, he will explore his options. His playoff heroics and history with the Dodgers may still weigh in his favor if negotiations resume, but the lack of a qualifying offer highlights the team’s reservations.
The Dodgers' focus seems increasingly strategic. With Snell in the fold, their sights may shift to other areas, such as re-signing Teoscar Hernández for outfield depth or exploring trades and further free agent additions like NPB star Roki Sasaki. Buehler, however, remains at a crossroads, with his future in Los Angeles more uncertain than ever.
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