Walker Buehler Accepts $21 Million Qualifying Offer from Dodgers for One-Year Deal
In a move that will keep one of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ most trusted pitchers in blue for at least one more season, Walker Buehler has agreed to a one-year deal worth $21 million, having accepted the team’s qualifying offer. This decision marks a pivotal moment in both Buehler’s career and the Dodgers’ pitching staff, as the 2024 season approaches. It also gives Buehler, who missed much of the 2023 season recovering from Tommy John surgery, the opportunity to regain his elite form and continue his journey toward becoming a key piece of the Dodgers’ pitching rotation.
A Strategic Decision
The qualifying offer, which Buehler accepted, represents a significant financial opportunity for the pitcher as well as a way for the Dodgers to retain him while he works his way back to full strength. The $21 million offer is a one-year deal, making it a relatively short-term commitment for both the player and the team. For Buehler, who was limited to just 36.2 innings in 2023 due to the injury, this is a chance to prove his value on a larger stage before hitting free agency again in 2025, when he will likely seek a longer-term, lucrative contract.
The decision to accept the offer is also practical given Buehler’s recent injury history. Coming off Tommy John surgery, Buehler has faced a lengthy recovery period, which made him a less certain candidate for a multi-year deal in the open market. By accepting the qualifying offer, Buehler guarantees himself a substantial salary in 2024, while also allowing the opportunity to showcase his talents before entering free agency as a fully recovered pitcher.
The Dodgers’ Strategy
From the Dodgers’ perspective, keeping Buehler on a one-year deal makes a great deal of sense. Despite missing much of the 2023 season, Buehler is one of the most talented pitchers in baseball when healthy. The Dodgers have built a reputation for developing pitching talent, and Buehler, who was once considered one of the top young pitchers in the game, represents a crucial part of their future success. By accepting the qualifying offer, the Dodgers maintain flexibility in their roster construction for the 2024 season while retaining a player who, if healthy, could be a frontline starter in their rotation.
Buehler’s presence also adds depth to an already strong pitching staff. While the Dodgers have a wealth of talent, including the likes of Clayton Kershaw, Julio Urías, and Tony Gonsolin, Buehler’s return could elevate the team’s pitching even further, especially in the postseason. The ability to have another high-quality arm like Buehler back in the fold for 2024 is a massive boost for the Dodgers, who are always looking to strengthen their chances of making another deep playoff run.
Buehler’s Impact When Healthy
Prior to his injury, Walker Buehler had emerged as one of the best young pitchers in baseball. He made his MLB debut in 2017 and quickly became a fixture in the Dodgers’ rotation. Known for his devastating fastball and sharp slider, Buehler posted impressive numbers, earning a 3.02 ERA across four seasons (2018-2022), while finishing 3rd in the National League Cy Young voting in 2020. His performance in the postseason has been equally impressive, further cementing his reputation as a clutch pitcher in high-leverage situations.
However, the 2023 season was a challenging one for Buehler, as he underwent Tommy John surgery in August of that year. This injury led to his absence for the majority of the season, and while he was able to return in the final months, he was unable to contribute at the level he had before. The 2024 season will be crucial for Buehler as he looks to regain his elite form and once again prove that he can be a top-tier pitcher for the Dodgers.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 season holds a great deal of significance for both Buehler and the Dodgers. For Buehler, it represents a chance to prove to both the Dodgers and other teams around the league that he is fully recovered from his injury and capable of being a top-of-the-rotation starter. His success in 2024 could set him up for a significant payday when he becomes a free agent following the season. For the Dodgers, the addition of Buehler on a one-year deal adds stability to their rotation and gives them a valuable postseason weapon if he is able to return to his former self.
Ultimately, the decision for Buehler to accept the Dodgers’ qualifying offer for 2024 is a win-win scenario. He secures a high-paying contract for the season while positioning himself for a larger deal in the future. Meanwhile, the Dodgers retain a talented pitcher who, when healthy, can be one of the best in the league. As the season approaches, both sides will be hopeful that Buehler can stay healthy and regain the form that made him one of the brightest young pitchers in Major League Baseball.
