The Philadelphia Phillies have seen several notable roster changes this season, including additions like Harrison Bader, Jhoan Duran, David Robertson, and Walker Buehler. While most new signings have clear roles, Buehler’s spot remained uncertain heading into October.
The former Dodgers All-Star struggled with the Boston Red Sox earlier this year and was released in late August, shortly before the Phillies picked him up. After one strong start in Philadelphia, questions lingered about how the team plans to use him in the playoffs.
Matt Gelb of The Athletic has now revealed the Phillies have made a decisive choice regarding Buehler’s role, providing clarity on his place in the roster as the postseason approaches.
The Phillies decide on Walker Buehler’s postseason role
The Phillies have decided how they will use Walker Buehler during the playoffs. According to Gelb, although Buehler is still a valuable asset, the team does not intend to start him in October. If a fourth starter is needed later in the postseason, Aaron Nola is expected to fill that role.
Despite Buehler’s career primarily as a starting pitcher, the Phillies plan to use him out of the bullpen, similar to their approach with Taijuan Walker. They are already testing this strategy, with Walker starting games and Buehler pitching in relief for extended innings.
Throughout his career, Buehler has mostly started games, with only 11 appearances in relief out of 174 total major league outings. His only relief appearance came in the 2024 World Series, where he closed for the Dodgers against the Yankees. Before joining Philadelphia, he had a 5.45 ERA over 22 starts. His single start with the Phillies was a strong five-inning effort, allowing just one run.
Despite this promising start, the Phillies do not plan to keep Buehler in the starting rotation. Instead, he will serve as a reliever, as shown by the team’s plan for the upcoming game against the Diamondbacks.
Buehler has had a challenging season, but the team hopes he can stabilize as a reliable long reliever during their postseason push. He brings a solid playoff track record, with a 3.04 ERA over 19 postseason games, and will be a key bullpen contributor.
Gelb’s report that the Phillies have no intention of starting Buehler signals his clear role on the roster. The team’s four main starters are set, and Buehler is viewed as a fifth or sixth option, which is generally unnecessary in the playoffs.
