The Los Angeles Dodgers’ need for starting pitchers at the trade deadline is becoming an annual tradition.
With four key starters hitting the injured list since Opening Day, the Dodgers have been positively ravaged, making their vaunted rotation one of the thinnest in the National League.
Fortunately, the Dodgers have prospects and cash to throw around at the deadline, so they should realistically be able to pursue just about any available starter.
What if the starter they want happens to be one they had for the past nine years?
On Monday, FanSided’s Zach Pressnell suggested that two-time Dodgers World Series champion Walker Buehler, now on a one-year, $21 million contract with the Boston REd Sox, could be an ideal trade deadline fit for Los Angeles.
“Walker Buehler might not generate much interest because he’s struggling again this year, but the Red Sox should still look to deal him away,” Pressnell wrote.
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“The one team that might be willing to take the bait is the Los Angeles Dodgers. Buehler spent his entire career with the Dodgers before being let go in free agency. With (his) expiring contract, he’s a trade chip for Boston. And with the Dodgers battling so many injuries, they could look to reunite with an old friend to boost their rotation.”
There’s no way around it: Buehler’s 6.25 ERA this season is ugly. Any team could be forgiven for refusing to look into acquiring him. But if any team knows what Buehler brings to the table in the playoffs, it’s Los Angeles.
Buehler’s 3.04 postseason ERA is excellent. His 0.47 World Series ERA is the stuff of legend. Last season, he added to that ledger with six shutdown World Series innings, including the series-clinching save with a one-run lead in Game 5.
Don’t expect the Dodgers to bring Buehler back, but also don’t be shocked if it winds up happening.
More MLB: Dodgers predicted to bring $5M World Series champ back to LA at trade deadline
