Dodgers News: Walker Buehler Speaks for First Time Since Shutting 2023 Down

The former ace finally speaks out after being shut down.

Walker Buehler is not returning this year after high hopes and expectations were there for the former ace to return to the mound this month before the playoffs.

Buehler was trying to have a shorter recovery after his second Tommy John surgery, even making an appearance in Triple-A where he tossed two perfect innings. Ultimately, the Dodgers and Buehler took the safer route in not rushing the process, and having him heal and focus on getting ready for the 2024 season.

Buehler had a tough hill to climb and a lot of hoops to jump through and one of those final hoops was just too high.

#Dodgers Walker Buehler said he checked off a lot of the boxes he wanted to this year, but ultimately felt he wasn’t recovering between starts as well as he wanted. So all parties involved decided it wasn’t worth the risk and expect him back ready to go for spring training.

— Juan Toribio (@juanctoribio) September 14, 2023

The recovery in between starts is something that Buehler did not have to combat before making his appearance in Triple-A, only tossing bullpens and facing live batters.

The recovery process is something that one does not want to rush since it heightens the risk of re-injury which is the worst-case scenario for the 29-year-old pitcher.

Buehler will still be there cheering on his teammates with a high head, as he knows he made an incredible attempt at a comeback this year.

Walker Buehler on his push to be back this year: “I feel like I kind of bet on a longshot horse and it ran second. I certainly don't think it came in last.”

— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) September 14, 2023

In 2022, Buehler tossed 65 innings and held a respectable 4.02 ERA but was definitely struggling before it was revealed he needed a second Tommy John surgery that shut him down for the rest of that year and 2023.

By 2024, Buehler will not have pitched in an MLB game in almost 24 months, but the former All-Star pitcher knows he can battle back and regain his top spot in the rotation and help the Dodgers win a World Series.