Walker Buehler has struggled mightily in the big leagues this season. The Boston Red Sox took a flyer on him after he helped the Dodgers to a 2024 World Series victory. Boston signed him to a one-year, $21 million deal, but he looked like a big bust in his time with the organization.
After being DFA, the Philadelphia Phillies picked him up off waivers and sent Buehler down to Triple-A before he is set to make his team debut against the Kansas City Royals on Friday.
Walker Buehler is not a fan of robot umpires
While down with Lehigh Valley, Walker Beuhler had to deal with the ABS system that is implemented at the minor league level.
In a recent ESPN article featuring Buehler, he discusses some of the aspects of the system he dislikes, which may soon become a reality in MLB:
"I think it's inaccurate," says Buehler." I think in most of the stadiums, it's not even actually on the plate. I think it shifts certain directions in certain ballparks. I think human element is a huge part of this game. I think starting pitchers that have pitched for long time deserve certain parts of the plate that other guy's don't get."
Buehler's frustration is understandable, especially considering he can no longer overpower hitters with his fastball like he once could. He now relies on nibbling the corners of the plate to try and steal strikes and catch hitters looking.
In 112.1 innings with the Red Sox this season, Buehler had a 5.45 ERA and struck out just 84 batters.
Later in the ESPN article, Buehler goes on to mention he's glad the Phillies picked him up because of how deep and talented their roster is, and he hopes he can play a factor in the team's success down the stretch of the season and into the playoffs.