The Boston Red Sox are facing a significant setback as right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler is sidelined due to shoulder issues, potentially keeping him out for several weeks. Buehler was scratched from his scheduled start against the Minnesota Twins and returned to Boston for further testing. Manager Alex Cora indicated that Buehler hasn’t recovered as expected, and his condition will be reassessed over the weekend.
This development is particularly concerning given Buehler’s injury history. The 30-year-old underwent two Tommy John surgeries, with the second causing him to miss the entire 2023 season. He returned to action in May 2024 and has been a key addition to the Red Sox’s rotation this season. Prior to this injury, Buehler had a 4-1 record with a 4.28 ERA over six starts and 33 2/3 innings in 2025.
In Buehler’s absence, Brayan Bello is expected to take the mound for Friday’s game against the Twins. Bello has shown promise this season, boasting a 2-0 record with a 3.27 ERA.
The Red Sox’s pitching staff has been a focal point this season, with several new additions and returning players. Garrett Crochet, Alex Bregman, Kristian Campbell, Sean Newcomb, Justin Wilson, Aroldis Chapman, and Carlos Narvaez have joined the team, aiming to strengthen the rotation and bullpen . However, the team has also been dealing with various injury concerns among its pitchers. Crochet, for instance, has a history of shoulder inflammation and Tommy John surgery, while Bello has faced elbow inflammation in the past.
As the Red Sox navigate these challenges, the performance and health of their pitching staff will be crucial in determining the team’s success in the coming weeks. The situation with Buehler underscores the unpredictable nature of player health and the importance of depth in a team’s roster.
