"Walker Buehler is a pricey gamble" – Anonymous AL executive evaluates Red Sox’s bold high-risk, high-reward move for 2025

On December 23, right-handed starting pitcher Walker Buehler reportedly agreed to a one-year, $21.05 million guaranteed deal with the Boston Red Sox. The 30-year-old's contract also includes an extra $2.5 million in incentives.

Though Buehler finished the year strong, with solid performances in the postseason that culminated in a World Series win, the righty had a regular season to forget with the LA Dodgers, finishing with a 1-6 record and a 5.38 ERA, while also missing large chunks of the season due to injuries.

Speaking to MLB insider Mark Feinsand, an AL executive, who preferred to remain anonymous, offered his opinion on the trade.

"Walker Buehler is a pricey gamble, but if they think that they are better at pitching development than the Dodgers, it makes sense," the executive said.

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Red Sox bolsters pitching arsenal with acquisitions of Walker Buehler and Garrett Crochet

The 2024 season was one to forget for the Boston Red Sox and its fanbase. Despite picking up some form following the All-Star break, the Red Sox finished the regular season third in the AL East standings, missing out on postseason baseball.

To make matters worse, their bitter rivals, the New York Yankees, went on to win the division and eventually make it to the Fall Classic.

Though the Red Sox boasts a powerful and dynamic offense, the pitching staff often seemed to be the weak link. To improve on what was arguably the weakest department of their squad, Craig Breslow & Co. went into the offseason looking to bring in top-quality pitching talent.

(Left to Right) Max Fried, Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler (Images from - Getty)

The Red Sox fell short of landing lefty Max Fried, who signed an eight-year, $218 million deal with the New York Yankees.

Though they did not end up getting who they initially set out to acquire, Red Sox fans can probably be content in the fact they did eventually snap up other strong options, such as the highly-coveted Garrett Crochet (via trade) and Walker Buehler.

It remains to be seen if the "gamble" of signing Buehler does pay off. But, if the 30-year-old manages to stay fit all season, there is a good chance he can get back to his best at Fenway Park next season.