Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes and manager Dave Roberts confirmed Walker Buehler is going to be delayed to begin the 2024 season and not part of the team’s Opening Day starting rotation.
Gomes had previously suggested Buehler would be held back at the outset of the season in order to preserve his availability into the playoffs.
“I think throughout the offseason, talking with Walker, everything we have been mindful of is to make sure he is on the proper progression that keeps him sharp but ready to go down the stretch,” Gomes explained.
Buehler is heading into his first season since having a second career Tommy John surgery. He hoped to return late in 2023 but made just one rehab start before announcing a decision had been made to look ahead to this season.
“We all feel comfortable with that,” Roberts said of delaying the right-hander. “The most important thing is he’s going to have innings and bullets through October. How we get there, obviously it’s going to be a late start to the season. We feel good about his health going forward though.”
Gomes offered another vote of confidence by noting, “His bullpen the other day was electric.”
Walker Buehler innings limit for 2024
Buehler acknowledged an innings limit will be in place for 2024 and that his focus for the time being is moving along with the rehab process in preparation for the season.
“I’m throwing off the mound and throwing bullpens regularly now,” he said. “So build up and try and contribute when I can.”
Although Buehler is not going to be on the Dodgers’ Opening Day roster, Gomes said the team does not anticipate placing him on the 60-day injured list.
That suggests Buehler’s 2024 debut could come at some point after the first month of the regular season, if not by late March.
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