Dodgers Ace Walker Buehler Signs with Rival Padres

The 31-year-old right-hander spent the first 8 seasons of his MLB career with the Dodgers before joining the Padres on a minor league deal.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Veteran right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler has signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, joining their roster after spending the first eight seasons of his MLB career with their NL West rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Buehler, a two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers, is looking to bounce back after struggling with injuries and inconsistency over the past two seasons.

Why it matters

Buehler's move to the Padres is a significant shift in the NL West power dynamic, as he was a key part of the Dodgers' rotation and success over the years. His addition to the Padres' pitching staff could help bolster their playoff hopes as they look to challenge the Dodgers' dominance in the division.

The details

Buehler, 31, agreed to a minor league deal with the Padres that includes an invitation to big league spring training. He spent last season with the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies, showing flashes of his former self after recovering from his second Tommy John surgery. Buehler is expected to compete for one of the final two spots in the Padres' starting rotation, which already includes Nick Pivetta, Joe Musgrove, and Michael King.

  • Buehler signed with the Padres on February 18, 2026.
  • He spent the first 8 seasons of his MLB career with the Dodgers.

The players

Walker Buehler

A 31-year-old right-handed pitcher who spent the first 8 seasons of his MLB career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, making 2 All-Star teams and winning 2 World Series titles before joining the Padres on a minor league deal.

San Diego Padres

The National League West baseball team that has signed veteran pitcher Walker Buehler to a minor league contract, adding him to their starting rotation competition.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The National League West rival of the San Diego Padres, for whom Walker Buehler played the first 8 seasons of his MLB career before joining the Padres.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, it feels a little weird. I imagine five years ago it would have felt a lot more weird, but this is a crazy game and this is a great opportunity for me.”

— Walker Buehler (nbcsports.com)

“I'm a starter, and I want to start, so I'm here to try and make the rotation.”

— Walker Buehler (nbcsports.com)

What’s next

Buehler will compete for one of the final two spots in the Padres' starting rotation during spring training.

The takeaway

Buehler's move from the Dodgers to their NL West rival Padres represents a significant shift in the divisional power dynamic, as the veteran right-hander looks to revive his career and help the Padres challenge the Dodgers' dominance in the West.