Potential landing spots for Walker Buehler after release

Less than a year after signing with the Boston Red Sox, the team released pitcher Walker Buehler on Friday. This ended what has been, at best, an inconsistent stint with the club following seven solid years with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

2025 has been his worst year in terms of ERA (5.45), and his control has been suspect since his second Tommy John surgery in 2023. However, it's not hard to envision Buehler finding another home for the pennant chase and playoffs.

The last two seasons for Buehler have been a struggle, but where he has always thrived is in the playoffs. The 31-year-old's career ERA in the postseason (3.04) and his two championship rings should entice every contender.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The most obvious team that could have an interest is his former club. Buehler left last offseason, with a full rotation already in place in Los Angeles. As September nears, Roki Sasaki, Tony Gonsolin, River Ryan and Gavin Stone are all on the injured list; suddenly, Buehler has room to retake his spot in the Dodgers' rotation, if they decide to bring him back.

New York Mets

The Mets (73-62) have had a rollercoaster of a season and need help with their starting pitching. Their starting rotation ranks 18th in the league in innings pitched. New York could offer Buehler a chance to right his season and correct their deficiency.

Philadelphia Phillies

The NL East-leading Phillies (78-57) recently lost their ace, Zack Wheeler, for the season. Replacing Wheeler with a pitcher of Buehler’s postseason caliber could be a welcome addition, and for Buehler, could be a relatively low-pressure option.

Buehler would be joining one of the best rotations in baseball in Philadelphia. Additionally, he could allow them to revert to the six-man rotation they had planned before the Wheeler injury or bolster their bullpen with Buehler's experience.

New York Yankees

The Yankees have been struggling in several areas this summer, including their offense and bullpen. New York signing a big-name pitcher with extensive World Series experience sounds like something the Yankees should do in their pursuit of a championship.

Chicago Cubs

Similar to Philadelphia, the Cubs are down an ace as they head towards the end of the regular season. Justin Steele was lost for the season due to Tommy John surgery, and their remaining staff have struggled to maintain consistency.

Chicago (77-58) is falling behind in the standings to the MLB-leading Milwaukee Brewers (84-52) in the NL Central, and adding pitching reinforcements to hold onto their lead for the first NL wild-card spot would be wise.

All these teams will likely have a look at Buehler. His playoff resume is something you wouldn’t expect to come onto the market in September.

Despite this setback and the negative outcome in Boston, it would not be shocking to see Buehler on the mound this postseason with a chance to add to his playoff legend.