After recent games, Boston Red Sox fans were left wondering. Walker Buehler, a best player, hasn't looked like his usual self this season. Talks are heating up right now with the MLB trade deadline coming July 31. Is the two-time World Series winner on his way out of Fenway Park? A renowned insider recently provided a startling update.
Walker Buehler’s Red Sox future remains uncertain as trade rumors rise
Before the 2025 season started, Walker Buehler inked a one-year, $21 million deal with the Boston Red Sox. Given his previous performances with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team had great hopes for the star pitcher.
But his time in Boston has not gone smoothly. After 16 starts, he has pitched only 78.0 innings, averaging under five innings per game. That number is lower than the 2024 league average of 5.22 innings per start, according to StatMuse.
Former Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon discussed Buehler's difficulties in a recent episode of Foul Territory. He observed that Buehler's brief outings are putting too great stress on the bullpen of the squad.
“You can’t have your starter go out and pitch two, maybe two and a third innings,” said Jonathan Papelbon.
“That’s not going to work, especially this late in the season.”
He also added that Walker Buehler does not have much time left to prove himself. “The rope is short,” he said, hinting that the Red Sox may soon make a tough decision.
Walker Buehler’s pitching mechanics may be hurting his performance
Jonathan Papelbon thinks the problems may be physical and mechanical. Walker Buehler's gait, he said, looks longer than usual, which might be harming his pitch command.
"If his stride is too long, he will have trouble getting on top of the baseball," Papelbon pointed out. "He must shorten it and concentrate on command. "Walker Buehler is still a worthy player despite these challenges. Two World Series triumphs and much of major game experience characterize his history. The Boston Red Sox, however, are now outside of playoff contention and could have to consider trade possibilities.
Fans and analysts will be intently following the MLB trade deadline set for July 31 to find out what follows. Walker Buehler might be sporting a different shirt before August if things don't quickly get better.
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