Alvin Garcia
The idea of Walker Buehler moving to the bullpen as a closer has sparked debate on Twitter/X, but its case grows stronger the more you examine the evidence. After two Tommy John surgeries, Buehler faces the harsh reality that his career longevity may depend on adjustments to his role. The Dodgers, meanwhile, need a reliable closer to solidify their bullpen and continue competing for championships. This scenario is a win-win for both sides—and here’s why.
A 2016 study on Tommy John surgeries sheds light on pitchers’ challenges after multiple UCL reconstructions. While 96% of pitchers return to play after their first surgery, the return rate plummets to 65.4% after a second procedure, with only 42.3% pitching more than 10 MLB games. Those who return tend to pitch fewer innings and have shorter careers, averaging 2.6 seasons compared to 4.9 for their peers.
In Buehler’s case, transitioning to the bullpen as a closer could reduce the strain on his arm by limiting his workload while maximizing his impact. Short, high-intensity outings would allow him to preserve his velocity and devastating pitch mix, avoiding the grueling recovery required between starts.
Another recent study on MLB pitchers following ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) offers critical insight into Buehler’s situation. It shows that performance consistency and durability are significant challenges while return-to-play rates are high (96%). Like Buehler, pitchers who underwent multiple procedures often face steeper odds of returning to a starter’s workload.
The data reveals that pitchers with chronic tears improved earned run average (ERA) post-surgery, particularly when their workloads were adjusted. By transitioning to the closer role, Buehler could focus on shorter, high-intensity outings rather than the grueling demands of pitching multiple innings every fifth or sixth day. This shift would reduce strain on his surgically repaired elbow while allowing him to maximize his performance.
The closer role is uniquely suited to Buehler’s skills. His electric fastball, sharp breaking pitches, and fearless mentality make him an ideal candidate to dominate high-leverage situations. Historically, we’ve seen players thrive after embracing reinvention—Kenley Jansen, for example, transitioned from a catcher to one of the most dominant closers in baseball.
Buehler’s postseason pedigree also cannot be overstated. He’s repeatedly proven that he thrives under pressure. As a closer, he could bring that same edge to the ninth inning, delivering elite performances when the stakes are highest.
From the Dodgers’ point of view, moving Buehler to the bullpen fills a glaring need. The closer role has been in flux since Kenley Jansen’s departure, with no one fully seizing the position. Buehler could immediately bring stability and star power to the back end of the bullpen, complementing high-leverage arms like Evan Phillips and Brusdar Graterol.
Financially, this move could also make sense. While starters typically earn more than relievers, high-profile closers like Edwin Díaz and Emmanuel Clase have proven that dominant ninth-inning specialists are highly valued. The Dodgers could structure an incentives-based deal around saves and innings pitched, allowing Buehler to earn closer-level money while reducing his risk of injury.
For Walker Buehler, this transition isn’t about conceding anything but redefining his legacy. He has already proven himself a top-tier starter, but two Tommy John surgeries have clarified that adjustments are necessary. The closer role offers him a path to extend his career, preserve his health, and remain a pivotal part of a championship-caliber team.
Additionally, this move keeps Buehler in the Dodgers organization, a team that competes for a title every year. Few franchises offer the combination of stability, resources, and winning culture that Los Angeles does. For a competitor like Buehler, staying with the Dodgers in a high-impact role is an opportunity that’s hard to match.
The decision to transition Walker Buehler to the closer role is not about diminishing his value but adapting to ensure his long-term success. The science backs it up: reduced workloads post-surgery can lead to better performance and longevity. The Dodgers need a closer, and Buehler has the tools and mentality to dominate in that role.
This move would not only solidify the Dodgers’ bullpen but also give Buehler a chance to rewrite the narrative of his career. Reinvention is not a step backward; it’s a strategic leap forward. For both Buehler and the Dodgers, this is the smart—and winning—move.
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