Walker Buehler signs minor league deal with Padres

Former Dodgers star pitcher looks to bounce back in NL West

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Free agent pitcher Walker Buehler has signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, according to reports. Buehler, a former All-Star with the Los Angeles Dodgers, struggled in 2025 with the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies after helping the Dodgers win back-to-back World Series titles.

Why it matters

Buehler's signing with the Padres represents an opportunity for the former Dodgers ace to revive his career in the NL West, where he had his greatest success. The Padres are looking to challenge the Dodgers' dominance in the division, and Buehler could be a key addition if he can regain his form.

The details

Buehler, 27, was selected by the Dodgers in the first round of the 2015 MLB draft out of Vanderbilt University. He made his MLB debut in 2017 and quickly established himself as one of the league's top pitchers, making the All-Star team in 2019 and 2020. However, his performance declined in 2025, leading to his release from the Red Sox and a brief stint with the Phillies.

  • Buehler was drafted by the Dodgers in 2015.
  • He made his MLB debut with the Dodgers in 2017.
  • Buehler made the All-Star team in 2019 and 2020 with the Dodgers.
  • He struggled in 2025 with the Red Sox and Phillies.
  • Buehler has now signed a minor league deal with the Padres in 2026.

The players

Walker Buehler

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who was a former All-Star with the Los Angeles Dodgers and is now looking to revive his career with the San Diego Padres on a minor league contract.

Nick Castillianos

An outfielder who recently joined the Padres after being released by the Philadelphia Phillies, reuniting with his former teammate Buehler.

Bob Nightengale

A sportswriter for USA Today who reported on Buehler's signing with the Padres.

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What they’re saying

“The San Diego Padres sign Walker Buehler to minor league deal”

— Bob Nightengale, Sportswriter (USA Today)

What’s next

Buehler will report to the Padres' minor league camp and look to earn a spot on the major league roster during spring training.

The takeaway

Buehler's signing with the Padres represents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for both the player and the team. If Buehler can regain his All-Star form, he could be a key piece in the Padres' quest to dethrone the Dodgers as NL West champions.