Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Reveals Walker Buehler’s Next Rehab Start Date

Roberts said that Urias' legal situation will have no effect on Buehler.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said earlier this week that Walker Buehler, who is recovering from the second Tommy John surgery of his career, would return to the mound for Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday for his next start.

Buehler pitched two hitless innings on Sunday, throwing 24 pitches and striking out a pair of batters.

Walker Buehler is through two innings, meaning his first rehab start for the OKC Dodgers is likely done. He looked as dominant as ever:

2 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K, 24 pitches.

He used his fastball, sinker, cutter, slider and curveball. His fastest pitch was 96.1 mph.

— Noah Camras (@noahcamras) September 3, 2023

Buehler has steadily progressed through rehab and his ability to pitch multiple games in less than a week is reassuring for LA, who hopes to see Buehler pitch in the playoffs.

Buehler used much of his arsenal Sunday, including his fastball, sinker, cutter, slider and curveball with his fastest pitch clocking in at 96.1 mph.

When healthy, Buehler is one of the best in the game. In his last full season with the Dodgers, he started 33 games and held a 16-4 record, a 2.47 ERA, a 0.97 WHIP and a 4.1 strikeout-to-walk ratio. 

Starting pitcher Julio Urias, who was arrested Sunday on felony domestic assault suspicions, is unlikely to return to the team this season. Due to the Dodgers likely being down a starting pitcher, the need for Buehler to return to the mound might be perceived as increased as the Dodgers prepare to make another run at the World Series.

However, Roberts stated that Urias' arrest will not affect Buehler's path back to the mound in 2023.

Buehler is on track to return this season, but it won't be until the team feels he's fully ready. Either way, he's making great progress.