Dave Roberts: Walker Buehler may return in September

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Walker Buehler. Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts 'cautiously optimistic' SP Walker Buehler can return in September

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 7/21/22

The Los Angeles Dodgers were dealt a major blow in early June when All-Star Walker Buehler hit the injured list with a right flexor strain.

While Buehler returning this season was once in question, there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel.

On Thursday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told the media he was "cautiously optimistic" that Buehler could return to pitch in September.

Walker Buehler is progressing in his recovery. Dave Roberts is "cautiously optimistic" he'll be making starts for the #Dodgers in September.

"Everything I hear from the staff, training staff, and Walker specifically, everything's trending in the right direction," said Roberts.
— Sarah Wexler (@SarahWexler32) July 22, 2022

Buehler last pitched on June 10, leaving a start against the San Francisco Giants after just four innings. The following day, the Dodgers placed Buehler on the 60-day IL, diagnosed with a Grade 2 flexor strain.

After being placed on the IL, Buehler had a bone spur removed on June 13, which hasn't affected his flexor strain rehab.

Before going down with an injury, Buehler went 6-3 with a 4.02 ERA in 12 starts for the Dodgers.

Buehler was lights-out on the mound for the Dodgers last season. In 2021, Buehler had a 16-4 record with a 2.47 ERA and received his second All-Star nod while finishing fourth in the Cy Young voting.

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