UPDATE: Walker Buehler is ready to take the mound for the Philadelphia Phillies this Friday, marking his highly anticipated return to Major League Baseball against the Kansas City Royals. Fans are buzzing with excitement as this debut comes amid Buehler’s controversial views on the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) used in the minors.
Buehler, a two-time All-Star and veteran of eight seasons, has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the ABS. “I think it’s inaccurate,” he stated, expressing concern over its reliability in various ballparks. He emphasized the importance of the human element in baseball, saying, “Starting pitchers deserve certain parts of the plate that other guys don’t get.”
His debut is crucial not just for him, but for the Phillies, who are in pursuit of their first World Series title since 2008. This comes after the team lost ace Zack Wheeler for the season due to thoracic outlet syndrome, creating a significant gap in their rotation. Buehler, who was released by the Boston Red Sox in August after a tough season, is eager to help his new team in the playoff race.
“They’re deep and talented, and I hope I can contribute in some way,” Buehler said ahead of a recent game. The Phillies will shift to a six-man rotation, allowing Buehler to be eligible for postseason play, a significant opportunity for the pitcher who previously helped the Los Angeles Dodgers secure World Series titles in 2020 and 2024.
Buehler’s recent performance in the minors shows promise. In his only start with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, he allowed just two runs on five hits while striking out five, indicating he may be regaining his form. He signed a $21.05 million one-year deal with the Red Sox last offseason but struggled with injuries, including a shoulder issue that sidelined him early in the season.
The urgency of his debut is palpable. With the MLB playoff race heating up, every game counts. Buehler’s ability to adapt to the Phillies’ needs could be pivotal as they aim for a deep postseason run. As he steps onto the field this Friday, all eyes will be on him, and fans will be eager to see if he can rise to the occasion and silence the critics of the ABS.
Stay tuned as this story develops, and watch Buehler’s performance closely, as it may reshape the Phillies’ trajectory this season.