The Boston Red Sox and right-hander Walker Buehler have agreed to a one-year, $21.05 million contract, according to sources via ESPN. The deal includes an additional $2.5 million in performance bonuses, as first reported by Yahoo Sports. Buehler, who secured the final out of this year’s World Series for the Dodgers, joins a Red Sox team that is bolstering its starting rotation in a push toward contention.
A two-time All-Star, Buehler, 30, was one of the most intriguing free agents this offseason. After undergoing a second Tommy John surgery in 2022, he returned to the Dodgers in 2024, posting a 5.38 ERA over 16 starts. Despite his regular-season struggles, Buehler excelled in the postseason, showcasing his ability in high-pressure moments. He delivered four scoreless innings in an NLCS victory, five shutout innings in the World Series, and closed out the championship with a dramatic ninth-inning save in Game 5 against the Yankees.
Boston hopes Buehler can replicate his October dominance. With a potent offense that ranked ninth in runs scored last season and a trio of elite hitting prospects—Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell, and Marcelo Mayer—the Red Sox entered the offseason focused on improving their pitching. The team has acquired high-upside arms at a reasonable cost, including left-hander Garrett Crochet via a trade and Patrick Sandoval on a two-year, $18.25 million deal. Sandoval, recovering from Tommy John surgery, is expected back in August, while Crochet is projected as the team’s Opening Day starter.
Known for his competitive edge and elite arsenal, Buehler built a reputation as a fierce competitor on the mound. His fastball, which averaged 96-97 mph and could dominate hitters on its own, was complemented by a cutter, curveball, slider, changeup, and sinker. His best season came in 2021 when he went 16-4 with a 2.47 ERA over 207⅔ innings, earning a fourth-place finish in the NL Cy Young voting.
Elbow injuries have been a recurring challenge for Buehler, who first underwent Tommy John surgery in 2015 after being drafted 24th overall by the Dodgers. A second procedure in 2022 and subsequent recovery cost him all of 2023, and his 2024 season was disrupted by hip inflammation and inconsistent performance. However, his impressive playoff showing demonstrated glimpses of his former dominance. By signing a one-year deal, Buehler signals confidence that his best is yet to come.
If the Red Sox can get peak performances from Buehler, Crochet, and a healthy Sandoval, their rotation could become a significant asset. They’ll also rely on returning arms like Tanner Houck, Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford, and Lucas Giolito, who is working his way back from Tommy John surgery as well.
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