Phillies land Walker Buehler after Red Sox cut ties

The Phillies are making a late-season move, and it’s a big name: Walker Buehler is coming to Philly.

According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Phillies have reached an agreement with the veteran right-hander just days after the Boston Red Sox released him. Boston gave up on Buehler Friday, deciding he couldn’t help them in the playoff push out of the bullpen. The Phillies, meanwhile, see him as a rotation arm.

Phillies land Walker Buehler after Red Sox cut ties

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Gotta be honest, I knew this was coming. Too many of you told me I was an idiot after I wrote that article 48 hours ago. I don’t expect an apology but maybe just hold off on the comments.

No doubt about it, Walker Buehler, 31, has had a rough year. He’ll head to South Philly with a 7-7 record and a 5.45 ERA in 22 starts before getting shoved into the ‘pen.

His first and only relief appearance for Boston was a dud, coughing up two runs to the Yankees in 2 1/3 innings. Even with the recent struggles, the résumé speaks for itself. He’s a two-time All-Star, two-time World Series champion, and the guy who closed out the Dodgers’ title last fall and widely considered a “playoff riser” in October.

Dave Dombrowski saw this and decided to sign him.

Fairs honestly. pic.twitter.com/5ED0FpwNcp

— Aidan Doc 🧸 (@AidanDoc__) August 31, 2025

He’s 54-29 in his career across 144 starts, and Philly is banking on him being more “October Buehler” than “Boston Buehler.” Remember, this is the same dude who tossed five shutout innings in Game 3 of the World Series, then came back two days later to slam the door in the clincher.

For a Phillies team that’s been searching for stability behind Cristopher Sánchez, Ranger Suárez, and the ever-shaky Aaron Nola, the move makes sense. Andrew Painter’s not here. Taijuan Walker is still Taijuan Walker. You needed another proven arm.

Walker Buehler’s had two Tommy Johns and plenty of bumps along the way, but when the lights are brightest, he usually delivers. Philly’s betting that history repeats itself.

Welcome to Red October, Walker.

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