Walker Buehler: A World Series Legacy Revisited
As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for Game 3 of the World Series, all eyes are on Walker Buehler, who is set to take the mound once again. This marks a familiar scene for Dodgers fans, as Buehler has previously started in the same pivotal game during the 2018 and 2020 World Series. In those outings, he showcased his remarkable talent, leading the Dodgers to victory with a combined 13 innings pitched, allowing only five hits, one run, and striking out 17 batters. However, the Buehler stepping onto the field this time is not the same pitcher who dazzled in those championship series.
The Evolution of Walker Buehler
Buehler’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, most notably his second Tommy John surgery in 2022. This procedure has altered not only his physical capabilities but also his pitching style. In 2018, three years post his first Tommy John surgery, Buehler was a force to be reckoned with, hitting 100 mph on the radar gun and averaging 98 mph with his fastball. Fast forward to 2020, where he maintained an impressive average of 96.9 mph against the Tampa Bay Rays. However, in his most recent outing during the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the New York Mets, Buehler’s average fastball velocity dipped to 93.8 mph, with a peak of just 95.4 mph.
A Shift in Pitching Strategy
The changes in Buehler’s velocity are accompanied by a noticeable shift in his pitching repertoire. In 2021, he finished fourth in Cy Young voting, relying heavily on his four-seam fastball, which he threw 44.7 percent of the time. This season, however, that number has dropped to 29 percent. While the four-seamer remains his most frequently used pitch, it no longer possesses the same dominance it once did. Buehler has historically complemented his fastball with a diverse arsenal, including a cutter, knuckle curve, and sinker. Recently, he has experimented with a sweeper and a slider, though the latter has been used sparingly, accounting for just 1.3 percent of his pitches during the regular season.
Postseason Performance: A Tale of Two Games
Buehler’s postseason performance has been a mixed bag, showcasing the volatility that often accompanies a pitcher returning from injury. In Game 3 of the NLDS, he struggled significantly, surrendering six runs over five innings against the San Diego Padres. However, he rebounded in the NLCS, delivering a scoreless four-inning performance against the Mets. This stark contrast raises questions about his consistency and adaptability in high-pressure situations.
Environmental Factors and Adaptation
As Buehler prepares for his start at Yankee Stadium, he acknowledges the potential impact of environmental factors on his performance. The weather conditions have varied significantly between his recent starts, with temperatures ranging from 68 degrees in San Diego to a chilly 51 degrees in New York. Tonight’s forecast predicts a temperature of 54 degrees with a light wind, which could further influence his pitching strategy. Buehler commented on the importance of acclimating to the stadium and its unique atmosphere, noting, “I think never having thrown here, I’m not sure if that will kind of continue.”
Facing the Yankees: A New Challenge
Tonight, Buehler will face a formidable Yankees lineup that features four left-handed hitters, including the dangerous Juan Soto. Historically, Soto has had limited success against Buehler, going 2-for-10 in their matchups, but the last encounter occurred before Buehler’s second Tommy John surgery. This adds an element of unpredictability, as both players have evolved since their last meeting.
Conclusion: The Weight of Expectations
As Walker Buehler steps onto the mound for Game 3 of the World Series, he carries with him the weight of expectations and the legacy of his past performances. While he may not possess the same velocity or arsenal that once made him a Cy Young contender, his experience and resilience will be crucial in navigating the challenges ahead. Dodgers fans will be hoping for a glimpse of the dominant pitcher they once knew, as Buehler aims to etch his name further into the annals of World Series history.