Los Angeles Dodgers Get Encouraging Performance From Walker Buehler as He Takes Massive Step in Injury Recovery

The Los Angeles Dodgers got a great performance on Wednesday from injured ace Walker Buehler, who is making his way back from Tommy John surgery. He faced hitters for the first time as part of a simulated inning.

The following update comes from the Rotowire fantasy baseball portal:

Buehler (elbow) touched 93 mph during a one-inning simulated game Wednesday at the Dodgers' spring training complex in Arizona, Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports.

ANALYSIS
It's not the velocity Buehler usually sits at, but given it was the pitcher's first time facing hitters since undergoing Tommy John surgery -- his second such procedure-- last August, he and the team were very encouraged. "It went really well," manager Dave Roberts said of the session. "Much better than I expected." Buehler has acknowledged that his original goal of returning on September 1 isn't realistic, as he will require a few more simulated games before going out on a rehab assignment. However, the righty remains confident he'll be able to help the Dodgers in some capacity before the end of the regular season, whether it's in a starting or relief role.

That's still good velocity from Buehler and points to a positive outlook as he tries to contribute this season.

When healthy, he's one of the best pitchers in baseball. He helped the Dodgers win the World Series in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season and owns a lifetime 46-16 record and a 3.02 ERA.

Buehler is a two-time All-Star (2019 and 2021) who led the league in win-loss percentage in 2019 at the age of 24. He has received Top-10 Cy Young votes in two separate seasons as well.

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