Walker Buehler to Bronx: Yankees Perfect Free Agent Fit
The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees in the World Series, earning a Fall Classic victory in five games. Walker Buehler shut the door on the Yankees in Game 5, as he earned the game-clinching save. There are no guarantees that Buehler will return to LA, though, so should the Yankees pursue the pitcher who recorded the final out of the 2024 World Series?
Buehler has battled injury concerns over the past few years. He struggled in 2024 after returning from his second Tommy John surgery, but Buehler pitched at a much more respectable level in the postseason. New York surely took notice of Buehler’s performance.
However, starting pitching was a strength for the most part for the Yankees. Still, they could use another reliable hurler.
Why Yankees pursuing Walker Buehler makes sense
Gerrit Cole is staying with the Yankees. Marcus Stroman, Carlos Rodon and Nestor Cortes all endured some ups and downs in 2024. Rodon and Stroman still have multiple years of team control remaining, but Cortes will be a free agent in 2026. He could emerge as a trade candidate.
Luis Gil is likely part of the Yankees’ long-term plans, but Clarke Schmidt is another trade candidate. In the end, the Yankees can make room for another starting pitcher if necessary.
So why is Buehler a good fit, though?
The Yankees’ financial situation is something to closely monitor. They are already set to pay Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton and Gerrit Cole significant amounts of money. New York is expected to pursue a reunion with Juan Soto, who is a free agent. Soto, however, may receive a Shohei Ohtani-like contract as he is arguably the best hitter in baseball at only 26 years old.
Buehler is going to be cheaper than other star pitchers in free agency given his recent injury history. Signing Buehler comes with risk, but the reward is worth it. When healthy, Buehler features an incredibly high-ceiling.
