Dodgers should consider reuniting with two-time World Series champion before trade deadline

With their injury-plagued rotation threatening their championship chances, the Los Angeles Dodgers should consider reuniting with a two-time World Series champion.

In a piece published Tuesday, ESPN's Jeff Passan named Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Walker Buehler as their best fit before the trade deadline on July 31 at 6 p.m. ET. The 30-year-old, of course, starred for the Dodgers from 2017-24 before signing a one-year, $21.05M deal with Boston in free agency. 

"Beyond that, the Dodgers' farm system is so deep that they'll have their pick of players at the deadline," wrote Passan. "But to bring in someone who knows their system, knows their culture and knows how to show up in the biggest moments is a fit that's almost too good to be true."

Buehler played a key role for the Dodgers when they won their eighth championship during the 2024 season. In four playoff games, he posted a solid 3.60 ERA and 1.13 WHIP. He also pitched the final three outs of the World Series against the New York Yankees. 

This season, Buehler has a 4-3 record and has logged a decent 4.44 ERA and 1.31 WHIP in nine games. While those aren't stellar numbers, he could still improve a Dodgers rotation that seems to be running out of arms. 

L.A. starting pitchers Blake Snell (left shoulder) and Tyler Glasnow (right shoulder) are on the 60-day injured list. Meanwhile, fellow starting pitcher Roki Sasaki (right shoulder) is on the 15-day IL.  

The injuries have hindered the Dodgers pitching throughout the season. Through its first 60 games, L.A. (36-24) tied for 25th in baseball in quality starts (17). Over their past two games against the Yankees (36-22) and New York Mets (38-22), the Dodgers have been outscored 11-6.

The Dodgers' starting pitching is one of their only weaknesses. Trading for Buehler could plug this hole and help L.A. become the first team to repeat as champions since the 2000 Yankees.