Buehler Poised for Pivotal Clash With Former Team in Rivalry Showdown

WHO:

MLB.com - Walker Buehler, San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Dodgers

MLB.com - A.J. Preller, general manager of the Padres

MLB.com - Craig Stammen, manager of the Padres

WHAT:

MLB.com - Walker Buehler is set to start in a matchup against the Dodgers.

MLB.com - Buehler has a 1.71 ERA with 22 strikeouts in 21 innings over his last four starts in June.

MLB.com - Buehler posted a 2.82 ERA in 95 appearances (94 starts) from 2018 to 2021.

MLB.com - Buehler had a 1.80 ERA in 12 regular season starts against the Padres.

MLB.com - Buehler's 2025 season included a 5.45 ERA in 112 1/3 innings, allowing 120 hits, 55 walks, and 22 home runs.

MLB.com - The Padres recently completed a three-game sweep of the Braves.

WHERE:

MLB.com - The matchup between the Padres and Dodgers is taking place in San Diego.

WHEN:

MLB.com - Buehler's start against the Dodgers is scheduled for Friday night.

MLB.com - Buehler made his official "remember me?" appearance against the Dodgers on July 27, 2025.

WHY:

MLB.com - The Padres took a chance on Buehler after he was released by the Red Sox on August 29, 2025.

MLB.com - The Padres are dealing with injuries to pitchers Nick Pivetta, Germán Márquez, and Lucas Giolito.

HOW:

MLB.com - Buehler has adjusted his pitching style, leaning more on his cutter than his four-seamer this season.

(UPDATED June 27, 2026 01:38 UTC)

Walker Buehler is set to start for the San Diego Padres in a matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday night, following a strong performance with a 1.71 ERA and 22 strikeouts over his last four starts in June. The Padres, who recently completed a three-game sweep of the Braves, are taking a chance on Buehler after he was released by the Red Sox last August, especially as they deal with injuries to several key pitchers. Buehler has adjusted his pitching style this season, relying more on his cutter than his four-seamer, and he has a solid track record against the Dodgers, posting a 1.80 ERA in 12 regular season starts against them.