Home / Sports / Phillies Eye Walker Buehler for Rotation Depth
Phillies Eye Walker Buehler for Rotation Depth
5 Feb
Summary
- Walker Buehler posted a 0.66 ERA in Philadelphia last September.
- The Phillies retained Schwarber and Realmuto but lost Ranger Suarez.
- Buehler's Vanderbilt ties with pitching coach offer comfort.
The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly exploring the acquisition of pitcher Walker Buehler for the upcoming 2026 season. Buehler, who played for both the Boston Red Sox and the Phillies in 2025, could serve as a valuable depth piece for the team's starting rotation. He demonstrated effectiveness late last season, recording a 0.66 ERA over 13.2 innings pitched after being released by the Red Sox.
This potential move comes as the Phillies aim to bolster their pitching staff, having retained core players like Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto but also facing the departure of Ranger Suarez. Buehler's familiarity with the Phillies organization, including a strong connection with pitching coach Caleb Cotham due to their shared Vanderbilt ties, might influence his decision. The possibility exists that he could even be utilized in the bullpen, though a starting role seems more likely on a contending team.
Buehler, a two-time All-Star, posted a 10-7 record with a 4.93 ERA across his 2025 seasons. While his recent performance may not match his earlier dominant years, he still possesses the capability to be a reliable middle-of-the-rotation starter, offering the Phillies a strategic insurance policy should their envisioned rotation face challenges.
