Padres Sign Former Dodgers Ace Buehler to Minor-League Deal

Veteran pitcher looks to revive career after injury-plagued seasons with Red Sox and Phillies.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 11:55pm

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The San Diego Padres have agreed to a minor-league contract with former Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Walker Buehler, adding the veteran pitcher to their starting rotation competition ahead of the 2026 season. Buehler, once one of the top pitchers in the National League, has struggled with injuries and ineffectiveness since undergoing Tommy John surgery and missing the 2023 season.

Why it matters

The Padres are hoping Buehler can regain his form and provide valuable depth to their starting rotation, which has been a strength for the team in recent years. If healthy, Buehler could emerge as a solid option, but the low-risk, minor-league deal also protects the Padres if he is unable to bounce back from his recent struggles.

The details

Buehler, 31, was a key part of the Dodgers' championship runs earlier in his career, establishing himself as a big-game pitcher capable of front-line production. However, his stint with the Boston Red Sox last year and brief appearance with the Philadelphia Phillies were forgettable, as he was unable to recapture his previous success.

  • Buehler missed the 2023 season due to Tommy John surgery.
  • He joined the Red Sox in 2024 but struggled, leading to his release.
  • Buehler then signed with the Phillies in 2025 but only appeared in three games.

The players

Walker Buehler

A 31-year-old right-handed pitcher who was once one of the top pitchers in the National League while with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but has since struggled with injuries and ineffectiveness.

San Diego Padres

A Major League Baseball team based in San Diego, California, who have agreed to a minor-league contract with Walker Buehler in hopes of reviving his career and adding depth to their starting rotation.

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What they’re saying

“The Padres latest addition to the starting rotation competition is an old nemesis who has fallen on hard times. The team has agreed to terms on a minor-league deal with former Dodgers right-hander Walker Buehler. The 31-year-old Buehler, once one of the top pitchers in the National League, has not been near the same pitcher since undergoing Tommy John surgery and missing the 2023 season.”

— Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune reporter

The takeaway

The Padres are taking a low-risk gamble on Buehler's potential upside, hoping he can regain his form and provide valuable depth to their starting rotation. This move highlights the team's commitment to building a strong pitching staff and their willingness to take chances on veteran players looking to revive their careers.