Report: New Team Joins The Walker Buehler Sweepstakes

December 03, 2024 ,

The New York Mets are emerging as serious contenders in the pursuit of free-agent right-hander Walker Buehler, per Joel Sherman of the New York Post. 

Despite a difficult 2024 season that saw Buehler post a 5.38 ERA over 75.1 innings following his second Tommy John surgery, his postseason heroics for the Dodgers—13 consecutive scoreless innings, including a title-clinching save—have made him a coveted high-upside addition. 

With Sean Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana departing in free agency, the Mets view Buehler as a key piece to bolster their rotation and sustain the momentum from their surprising 2024 playoff run. 

The Atlanta Braves and New York Yankees are also reportedly interested, creating a competitive market for the two-time All-Star.

Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns has focused on short-term, flexible contracts to mitigate risk and maintain financial flexibility, a strategy he executed successfully last offseason. 

Recently, the team signed Frankie Montas to a two-year, $34 million deal, and they are eyeing Buehler for a similar arrangement, potentially with opt-outs. 

“The Mets signed 10 free agents to major league deals last offseason, and only one received more than a one-year guarantee,” Sherman noted.

This method could also support the Mets’ broader plans, including a potential record-setting offer to free-agent outfielder Juan Soto, who remains a priority target.

For Buehler, New York represents an opportunity to rebuild value, whether on a one-year “prove-it” deal or a short-term contract with flexibility. 

Once among the league’s premier pitchers with a 2.82 ERA and two All-Star nods from 2018 to 2021, Buehler has struggled with injuries but retains significant upside. 

His October dominance has reignited interest across the league, and if the Mets secure him, they’d add a potential game-changer to their rotation, solidifying their status as a contender in 2025.

Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images



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