Walker Buehler (27, LA Dodgers), who is aiming to return in September, is in the midst of final rehabilitation training. He faced a batter for the first time after surgery.스포츠토토

The LA Times, a media outlet in the Los Angeles area, reported on the same day that Buehler pitched in a simulation game on the 10th (hereafter Korean time).

According to this, it was Buehler’s first encounter with a hitter after surgery. Now, Buehler will return after additional simulation games and minor league rehab.

Buehler’s expected return is early September. Earlier, Buehler had announced that he would return on September 1. It may be a little later than September 1, but a return within this season is certain.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are leading the National League West with a 66-46 win rate of 0.589 until the 9th. It has a very high chance of advancing to the postseason.

Buehler’s return is expected to be of greater help in the postseason stage than winning the division in the regular season. The importance of a pitcher who throws a fastball in the postseason is very important.

Previously, Buehler left due to a sprained elbow ligament in June of last year, and in late August, he underwent an elbow ligament joint surgery (Tommy John surgery). two months wasted.

At the time of the surgery, a return to the 2024 season was expected. But Buehler is trying to come back after a 12-month recovery period. Twelve months is the minimal recovery period from Tommy John surgery.

If all goes well, Buehler could be back on the postseason mound in September.

Buehler, who is in his 6th year in the major leagues, is a right-handed starting pitcher who throws a strong ball. Last season in 2021, he pitched 207 2/3 innings in 33 games, going 16-4 with a 2.47 earned run average.