When will Walker Buehler return? Looking at Dodgers star's recovery from second Tommy John surgery

Walker Buehler has been a pivotal part of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitching staff since his debut nearly six years ago. Unfortunately, he is set to miss a major chunk of the 2023 season as he recovers from his second Tommy John surgery.

Buehler sustained an elbow injury in June last year, requiring him to undergo Tommy John surgery for the second time in his career. He was diagnosed with a Grade 2 flexor strain. His last appearance was against the San Francisco Giants.

So there is a chance Walker Buehler might miss the entire 2023 season. He is one of three Dodgers stars placed in the 60-day IL, and manager Dave Roberts holds hope for a return somewhere toward the latter half of the season.

Walker Buehler 2022 stats

While his arm struggles last season meant he could only pitch 65 innings, he posted a 4.02 ERA with a 21.2% strikeout rate. While these numbers are nowhere near the output expected from a player of Buehler's quality, he remains one of the most exciting pitchers in the National League.

Last month, the two-time All-Star recently stepped up his recovery, throwing a few from 60 feet.

Apart from Walker, Blake Treinen and J.P. Feyereisen have also been placed on the 60-day injured list.