Walker Buehler pitched six strong innings, striking out seven batters in his third start since coming back from Tommy John surgery. His performance helped the Los Angeles Dodgers secure a 4-0 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday night.
Buehler (1-1) only allowed three hits and didn’t give any walks in an impressive display, earning his first major league win since May 24, 2022.
In his first two starts after his second Tommy John procedure, Buehler seemed a bit shaky and struggled with control. However, the two-time All-Star regained control of his breaking pitches against Cincinnati, showing the form he’s known for during his first six seasons with the Dodgers.
Buehler mentioned that he made some adjustments to his position on the rubber since his last start, which helped him find his rhythm.
“It was finally fun again,” Buehler said, smiling. “No, it’s just good to put one together. … The (velocity) wasn’t as good as it has been, not that that was intentional, but I think I was really trying to command it, and that’s what happens.
I think there’s enough velo in there to be still pretty good. Just felt like it finally worked.” Buehler and his three relievers combined for a three-hitter, with the bullpen pitching three perfect innings.
“He naturally has confidence, but I still believe that actually going out there and performing solidifies that confidence, especially after coming back from Tommy John surgery,” commented Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.
Freddie Freeman contributed with two hits and an RBI for the Dodgers, who have been on a hot streak, winning 18 of their last 24 games and leading the NL West by 7 1/2 games ahead of San Diego. Teoscar Hernández and Andy Pages also added run-scoring hits for Los Angeles.
“A healthy Walker Buehler is crucial for us,” Freeman remarked. “You can’t underestimate his importance. I empathize with someone who has dealt with injuries like that. It’s been a long journey back for him. Whatever happens in the future, we’ll deal with it.”
Graham Ashcraft (3-3) allowed three hits, three walks, and three runs in five innings for the Reds, who have lost two consecutive games and 14 of their last 17. It was the fourth time this season that Cincinnati was shut out.
“They made some solid contact, (but) there was only one hard-hit ball throughout the game,” Ashcraft noted. “But, of course, the walks hurt me.”
Despite keeping Shohei Ohtani in check, who went 0 for 4 for only the fifth time since joining the Dodgers, the Reds still ended up losing. Mookie Betts also had his first day off of the season for the Dodgers, with Ohtani taking over the leadoff spot.
