Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — In a huge bummer, it was announced today that Dodger right-hander Walker Buehler will undergo season-ending elbow surgery, thus ending his hopes for a comeback to help the Dodgers in the stretch run or in the postseason.
After not looking like his dominant self for a while, Buehler was shut down in June after a start against the Giants. At the time, the injury was described as a “flexor tendon strain” on his right elbow. Now, this latest setback, just as he was starting to ramp up his rehab from the first injury. At the time, it was thought to be a six to eight week period of time on the shelf. Today’s news obviously puts the kibosh on all those plans.
High-profile sports surgeon and team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache will perform the procedure, which is currently scheduled for next week.
So, obviously this is a huge blow. However, it just means it’s step-up time for everybody else. Dustin May is on the cusp of a return to the team, and he’s been lights-out at OKC. Clayton Kershaw continues to make good progress recovering from his latest back issue. And Urias, Anderson, and Gonsolin have all been solid and consistent all year long.
It would have been nice to have Walker back, but this team is great with or without him. That which does not kill you makes you stronger. Let’s do this.
