Walker Buehler’s release: Boston Red Sox part ways with veteran pitcher after underwhelming season

The Boston Red Sox have released veteran pitcher Walker Buehler on Friday (August 29). The move comes after a tough season for the 31-year-old right-hander, who struggled to regain his pre-injury form in Boston.

A disappointing season in Boston Red Sox

Walker Buehler signed a one-year, $21.05 million contract with the Red Sox in the offseason, after missing the 2023 season due to a second Tommy John surgery. However, his 2025 campaign was disappointing with inconsistent performances. In 23 appearances, Buehler posted a 5.45 ERA, striking out 84 batters in 112.1 innings, a career-low strikeout rate of 6.7 per nine innings. His 120 hits allowed (9.6 per nine innings) and 55 walks (4.4 per nine innings) were also career-worst marks, leading manager Alex Cora to shift him to the bullpen last week.

The season started poorly, with Buehler surrendering nine earned runs in his first two starts, totalling just 9 1/3 innings. A stint on the injured list for right shoulder bursitis further derailed his campaign.

Walker Buehler's form before injury

Before his injury woes, Walker Buehler played an important role in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ rotation. He earned All-Star nods in 2019 and 2021, boasting a combined 30-8 record and a 2.87 ERA during those seasons. Even after his 2023 absence, Buehler showed promise in the 2024 postseason, striking out 13 batters while allowing just six hits in 15 innings, helping the Dodgers secure a World Series title.

Boston Red Sox's strategy

The decision to release Buehler aligns with the Red Sox’s promotion of top pitching prospect Payton Tolle, who will make his debut against the Pittsburgh Pirates’ ace Paul Skenes on Friday. With the Red Sox holding the first wild card spot in the American League and trailing the AL East leader by 3.5 games with 27 games left, the team is prioritizing young talent for its postseason push.

Walker Buehler's future path

Walker Buehler's release will leave him free to sign with another team, though his recent struggles may limit him to a minor-league deal or another short-term contract. The 31-year-old will likely aim to rebuild his value and prove he can return to form.