A Legendary Career Comes to an End
The Final Chapter
Walker Buehler, arms extended, strutting off the Yankee Stadium mound, a World Series title having just been secured by his trademark knuckle-curveball. Now, the scene will be a parting image for Buehler’s distinguished tenure with the club, too.
On Monday, Buehler agreed to a one-year, $21.05 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, as Yahoo Sports first reported, officially ending a seven-year run with the Dodgers that included tantalizing highs (two All-Star selections, two World Series titles and from 2018-2021 the fourth-best ERA in the majors), injury-plagued lows (including two Tommy John surgeries that derailed his ascent as the Dodgers’ next great ace) and a fitting final act, with Buehler’s iconic save in Game 5 of the World Series proving to be his last game in a Dodgers uniform.
A Departure Expected
It’s a departure that, for most of this year, had been expected, as Buehler struggled mightily in the regular season returning from his second Tommy John procedure.
A Resurgence in October
However, despite his 1-6 record and career-worst 5.38 ERA, Buehler sneaked into the Dodgers’ postseason rotation amid a rash of other pitching injuries and delivered in ways even he wasn’t fully expecting. Four shutout innings in a Game 3 win in the National League Championship Series. Five spotless frames in Game 3 of the Fall Classic. And then, on just one day of rest, a 16-pitch relief appearance to close out a championship.
For the first time in three years, flashes of Buehler’s once-dominant form returned.
A Parting Message
At various points leading up to this offseason, Buehler had expressed a desire to remain in Los Angeles, saying before the World Series that "I’m very happy to be a Los Angeles Dodger, and I would love to stay here for as long as they’ll have me."
Conclusion
Walker Buehler is no longer a Dodger. His championship-clinching curveball will be the lasting memory of his tenure with the team. Despite his departure, Buehler’s legacy as a Dodgers icon will remain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did the Dodgers decline to offer Walker Buehler a qualifying offer?
A: The Dodgers decided not to offer Buehler a one-year, $21.05 million qualifying offer due to his struggles in the regular season and the risk associated with his two Tommy John surgeries.
Q: What did Walker Buehler say about his desire to remain with the Dodgers?
A: Buehler expressed a desire to remain with the Dodgers, saying "I’m very happy to be a Los Angeles Dodger, and I would love to stay here for as long as they’ll have me."
Q: Where did Walker Buehler sign after leaving the Dodgers?
A: Buehler signed a one-year, $21.05 million contract with the Boston Red Sox.
