Walker Buehler has officially signed a one-year contract worth $21.05 million with the Boston Red Sox, as confirmed by sources. The deal, which includes an additional $2.5 million in performance bonuses, comes after Buehler played a pivotal role in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ victory against the New York Yankees in the 2024 World Series.
The 30-year-old right-hander, a two-time All-Star, showcased his resilience this past season after recovering from a second Tommy John surgery. Despite his challenging return to the Dodgers, which included a 5.38 ERA over 16 starts, Buehler excelled during the postseason, earning accolades for his four shutout innings in the National League Championship Series and sealing the championship win in a high-stakes Game 5.
The Red Sox are strengthening their pitching staff as they aim for contender status, having already added left-hander Garrett Crochet through a trade and signed left-hander Patrick Sandoval for two years. These moves are part of a strategy to enhance their rotation without significant financial investments.
Buehler has built a reputation for his competitive spirit and impressive pitching arsenal, which features a four-seam fastball that consistently reaches 96-97 mph, alongside an array of complementary pitches. His standout performance came in 2021, where he boasted a 16-4 record and a 2.47 ERA, underscoring his capability to dominate on the mound.
Boston is hopeful that by securing Buehler and other pitching talents, they can enhance their roster depth significantly. Along with the new acquisitions, the Red Sox retain several promising right-handed pitchers, paving the way for a potentially formidable pitching rotation. Buehler’s decision to opt for a one-year deal indicates his confidence to prove himself further on the field, hinting at exciting prospects for the upcoming season.
Overall, this development is a positive indicator for the Red Sox as they aim to return to competitive form, leveraging Buehler’s expertise and leadership to cultivate a stronger team dynamic.