Buehler’s Performance Plummets, leading to significant concerns within the Boston Red Sox organization and sparking a roster evaluation. Walker Buehler’s recent struggles on the mound have raised questions about his continued role with the team. His high ERA and inability to pitch deep into games have put his roster spot in jeopardy, prompting discussions about potential changes.
Mounting Concerns Over Buehler’s Performance
Walker Buehler’s performance has been a significant concern for the Boston Red Sox. As reported by Yardbarker, who syndicated an article from Athlon Sports, Buehler’s ERA has reached alarming levels, hovering around 6.45 and 6.29 as of early July 2025. This high ERA reflects a consistent pattern of allowing numerous runs and failing to provide the Red Sox with quality innings.
Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com has also highlighted Buehler’s struggles, noting that he has consistently failed to pitch deep into games. This places additional strain on the bullpen and disrupts the team’s overall strategy. The inability to secure quality starts from Buehler has forced the Red Sox to re-evaluate their pitching rotation and consider alternative options.
Initial Plans and Shifting Perspectives
Despite Buehler’s poor performance, the Red Sox initially intended to keep him in the rotation for his next scheduled start. This decision likely stemmed from a desire to give Buehler an opportunity to turn things around and regain his form. However, as reported by NESN, CBS News, and CBSSports.com, there have been internal discussions and growing concerns about the feasibility of continuing with Buehler in his current role.
The possibility of moving Buehler to the bullpen has been considered as a potential way to utilize his talents without exposing him to the pressures of starting games. Another option under consideration is designating him for assignment, which would effectively remove him from the active roster. These discussions reflect the urgency of the situation and the Red Sox’s commitment to improving their pitching staff.
Buehler’s Acknowledgment and Underlying Issues
Buehler himself has acknowledged his disappointing performance, describing it as “embarrassing.” This admission underscores the severity of his struggles and his awareness of the impact on the team. His honesty and accountability are commendable, but they do not alleviate the need for improvement on the field.
Impact of Shoulder Injury
Earlier in the season, Buehler was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a sore right shoulder. While he has since returned from the injured list, it is possible that the shoulder issue continues to affect his performance. The injury may have altered his mechanics or limited his ability to throw with the same velocity and control as before.
Command Issues and Walks
One of the primary factors contributing to Buehler’s struggles is his command issues, particularly with walks. As noted by Athlon Sports, Buehler has been issuing an unusually high number of walks, which puts runners on base and creates scoring opportunities for the opposition. These walks often lead to increased pitch counts and shorter outings, further exacerbating the problem.
The lack of command also affects Buehler’s ability to locate his pitches effectively. When he is unable to consistently hit his spots, he becomes more predictable and easier for opposing hitters to barrel up. This results in more hits, more runs, and ultimately, a higher ERA.
Red Sox Roster Evaluation and Potential Moves
Walker Buehler’s struggles have prompted a broader roster evaluation by the Red Sox. The team is assessing its pitching depth and exploring potential moves to address the deficiencies in the rotation. This evaluation includes considering both internal options, such as promoting minor league prospects, and external options, such as acquiring pitchers through trades or free agency.
Internal Options
The Red Sox have several promising pitching prospects in their minor league system who could potentially contribute to the major league team. These prospects are being closely monitored, and some may be given an opportunity to prove themselves at the highest level. Promoting a prospect could provide a spark to the team and inject some much-needed energy into the pitching staff.
External Options
The Red Sox may also look to acquire pitching help from other teams through trades or free agency. The trade market can be a valuable source of talent, but it often requires giving up valuable assets in return. Free agency offers another avenue for acquiring pitchers, but the competition for top-tier free agents can be fierce, and the cost can be high.
The Road Ahead for Buehler
The future remains uncertain for Walker Buehler. His performance in his upcoming starts will likely determine whether he remains in the Red Sox’s starting rotation or is moved to the bullpen or designated for assignment. Buehler needs to demonstrate significant improvement in his command and overall effectiveness to regain the confidence of the coaching staff and the front office.
Ultimately, the Red Sox’s decision will be based on what is best for the team’s long-term success. While they may want to give Buehler every opportunity to succeed, they cannot afford to continue with a pitcher who is consistently underperforming. The evaluation process is ongoing, and the Red Sox will carefully weigh all available options before making a final determination.
In conclusion, Walker Buehler’s struggles have created a challenging situation for the Boston Red Sox. His high ERA, command issues, and inability to pitch deep into games have raised serious concerns about his role with the team. As the Red Sox evaluate their roster and consider potential moves, Buehler’s performance in his upcoming starts will be crucial in determining his future with the organization. The Red Sox will need to make tough decisions to ensure the team’s success, balancing loyalty to a struggling player with the need to improve the overall pitching staff.
