As the MLB trade deadline looms, the Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly considering a bold, strategic move that could ignite another deep postseason run. According to ESPN insider Jeff Passan, the Dodgers may reunite with their former ace and two-time World Series champion, Walker Buehler, who is currently pitching for the Boston Red Sox. The potential deal, fueled by the Dodgers’ injury-riddled rotation and Buehler’s familiarity with Los Angeles, is gaining momentum as both teams evaluate their paths forward in 2025.
Buehler, 29, was a foundational piece of the Dodgers’ pitching staff during their 2020 and 2024 World Series wins. Known for his fiery competitiveness and electric stuff, he has consistently risen to the occasion in high-pressure playoff moments. His fastball-slider combo, command, and postseason pedigree make him a coveted asset—even more so for a Dodgers team that is currently reeling from injuries to 14 pitchers, including rotation anchors like Blake Snell, Tony Gonsolin, and Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki.
Now with the Red Sox on a one-year, $21.05 million contract, Buehler has had an up-and-down 2025 campaign. He’s posted a 4–3 record with a 4.44 ERA over 46⅔ innings, showing flashes of dominance but also experiencing setbacks, including a stint on the injured list in May due to shoulder inflammation. Despite the inconsistency, his experience and upside could be the exact spark L.A. needs heading into the dog days of summer.
The Dodgers, sitting atop the NL West but with a thinning margin, are expected to be aggressive at the trade deadline. With postseason aspirations in full focus, they need reliability and playoff experience on the mound. A reunion with Buehler wouldn’t just be a nostalgic move—it would be a calculated addition of a battle-tested warrior who knows the stakes and the city.
For Boston, the equation is different. The Red Sox are hovering around .500 and may soon pivot to a seller’s mindset if their playoff chances don’t improve. Trading Buehler could allow them to recoup young talent and position themselves better for the future. With Buehler set to hit free agency this offseason, getting value before he walks makes practical sense—especially if they don’t envision a long-term extension.
The familiarity factor cannot be overlooked either. Buehler has worked extensively with Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior and has strong relationships with clubhouse leaders like Mookie Betts and Will Smith. His return would likely require no adjustment period, a luxury in the tightly packed NL playoff race.
While no deal is imminent, the Dodgers are clearly monitoring the situation closely. If the Red Sox officially signal a willingness to move Buehler, expect the Dodgers to be among the first in line. As Jeff Passan hinted, this could be the type of move that not only plugs a hole—but revives a championship formula.
With October in sight, a reunion between Walker Buehler and Los Angeles may be more than just a feel-good story. It could be the final piece in another World Series puzzle.
