Walker Buehler’s Postseason Aspirations with the Phillies
After a long and arduous journey over the past 331 days, Walker Buehler finds himself on the cusp of postseason glory once again. The last time he stepped onto the mound in a high-stakes game, he was striking out former teammate Alex Verdugo, clinching the Los Angeles Dodgers’ eighth World Series championship. Since that triumphant moment, Buehler has faced significant challenges, including a stint on the sidelines as he fought to reclaim his place in Major League Baseball.
A Rocky Road Back
Buehler’s comeback began last December when he signed a one-year deal with the Boston Red Sox. However, his time with the Red Sox was short-lived; he was released in August. Soon after, the Philadelphia Phillies offered him a lifeline with a minor league contract. Just two weeks ago, Buehler was added to the Phillies’ active roster, coinciding with the team’s secure spot in the postseason. Now, the question looms: has Buehler done enough to earn a coveted starting role in October?
Buehler’s Mixed Signals
When pressed about his potential role as a starter in the playoffs, Buehler offered a remarkably candid response that reflected both humility and uncertainty. “That’s above my paygrade,” he remarked when asked if he had positioned himself as a viable option for the postseason rotation. Yet, his desire to contribute was clear when he stated, “Next time we celebrate, I wanna feel like I was a part of it.”
Demonstrating His Readiness
Buehler’s skill set undoubtedly lends itself to a starting position. In a recent outing against the Miami Marlins, he showcased his capabilities by pitching five innings, allowing only three hits while striking out five batters. This performance not only demonstrated his readiness but also reinforced his belief that the intensity of playoff baseball demands a different mindset. “I think every pitch in the playoffs is a little bit more,” he noted. “I think if you throw 100 pitches during the regular season, you’re ready to throw 75 or 80 in the playoffs.”
Phillies’ Postseason Plans
As the Phillies prepare for the postseason, they find themselves with an extended break after securing one of the two first-round byes. This time off allows the team to strategize and evaluate their options, including the potential role of Buehler in their playoff plans. With ace Zack Wheeler unavailable, Buehler’s journey from uncertainty to a potential pivotal role in the postseason could be one of the most compelling narratives to watch as October unfolds.
