Walker Buehler to the Padres? Why the Former Dodgers Ace Could Be San Diego’s Next Big Bet
Walker Buehler might be headed back to the NL West-but this time, not in Dodger blue.
The former Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander is being linked to the San Diego Padres in free agency, and there’s a compelling case for why this fit makes sense for both sides. While Buehler’s recent seasons have been anything but smooth, the Padres have shown a willingness to take calculated risks on talented arms looking to bounce back. This could be another one of those moves.
A Rotation Spot Up for Grabs in San Diego
San Diego recently locked in Michael King on a three-year, $75 million deal-a solid move to stabilize the rotation. But with Dylan Cease no longer in the mix, there’s still a vacancy to fill. Enter Buehler, who, despite recent struggles, brings postseason experience, high-end stuff when healthy, and a chip on his shoulder.
The Padres have never shied away from rolling the dice on pitchers with something to prove. Whether it’s converting relievers into starters or giving a second (or third) chance to former stars, they’ve built a reputation for creative pitching decisions.
Buehler fits that mold perfectly. If he signs, he’d likely slot into the back end of a rotation that already features King, Nick Pivetta, Joe Musgrove, and Randy Vasquez.
That’s a group with upside-and if Buehler can find even a fraction of his old form, it could quietly become one of the more intriguing rotations in the league.
What Went Wrong in Boston?
After signing a one-year, $21.05 million deal with the Red Sox ahead of the 2025 season, Buehler’s return to the American League didn’t go as planned. Over 112.1 innings, he posted a 5.45 ERA and never quite found his rhythm. By midseason, Boston manager Alex Cora shifted him to the bullpen in an effort to spark something different.
The move didn’t stick for long. In August, Buehler was released to make room for top pitching prospect Payton Tolle-an organizational decision that signaled the end of a short and rocky stint in Boston.
A Brief Stop in Philly
Buehler quickly landed a minor league deal with the Phillies and was with the club during their postseason run. He didn’t appear in the NL Division Series against the Dodgers-his old team-but his presence on the roster was a reminder of the pedigree he still carries. Even with his recent struggles, teams know what he’s capable of when healthy.
A Look Back at His Dodgers Legacy
Buehler’s career started with promise in Los Angeles, where he spent seven seasons and became a fan favorite. A two-time All-Star (2019, 2021), he was a mainstay in the Dodgers’ rotation during some of their most successful years. His 2021 season was particularly electric, finishing with a 2.47 ERA and showcasing the kind of dominance that made him one of the league’s premier arms.
But injuries derailed his momentum. After undergoing a second Tommy John surgery, Buehler returned in May of the 2024 season and struggled to regain form, finishing the regular season with a 5.38 ERA over 26 starts. Still, when the postseason arrived, the Dodgers turned to him-and he delivered.
With LA’s rotation thinned out by injuries, Buehler stepped up in October. He threw nine scoreless innings across his final two playoff outings and even notched the first postseason save of his career in Game 5 of the World Series. It was a reminder of the big-game pitcher he’s always been.
Despite that late surge, Buehler declined the Dodgers’ one-year, $20 million offer and entered free agency following the 2024 championship run.
Why the Padres Move Makes Sense
San Diego knows the stakes in the NL West. They’ve seen firsthand what Buehler can do at his best-and they’ve also seen how quickly fortunes can change in this division. Taking a flyer on a pitcher with Buehler’s track record, even after a down year, could be a savvy move for a team still looking to solidify its identity post-Soto and post-Melvin.
If Buehler can stay healthy and rediscover his command, the Padres could be adding a former ace to the back of their rotation at a discount. And if not? It’s a low-risk, high-reward play for a team that’s shown it’s not afraid to think outside the box.
Bottom line: Buehler to the Padres isn’t just a reunion with the NL West-it could be the fresh start both sides need.