Weeks ago, Walker Buehler learned that he would be released from the Boston Red Sox. He was not what Boston had hoped for, compiling a 7-7 record during his time there with a 5.45 ERA across 23 appearances.
A few days after he was released by Boston, the Philadelphia Phillies decided to sign him to a minor league contract. They needed to bolster their starting rotation with Zack Wheeler being shut down for the rest of the year.
Buehler made his minor league debut with Philadelphia on Saturday and was called up to get the start on Friday against the Kansas City Royals. With guys like Bobby Witt Jr. and Vinnie Pasquantino swinging a hot bat as of late, this will be a test for the hard-throwing righty.
Phillies shake up their roster to make room for Walker Buehler
Ahead of Walker Buehler's debut for Philadelphia on Friday, the club announced some roster moves. According to MLB Trade Rumors, the team selected Walker Buehler's contract while placing Jose Alvarado on the 15-day IL and designating Matt Manning for assignment.
This now makes two clubs designating Manning for assignment after he was DFA'd by the Detroit Tigers ahead of the trade deadline this year. He will now look for another opportunity in a stacked class of potential free agent pitchers over the winter.
As for Buehler, since he signed before the September 1st deadline, he is eligible to pitch in the postseason. He could prove to be a huge help for the club if he can limit the mistakes that he made with Boston.