Here are three reasons why Walker Buehler is worth re-signing, based on his postseason resurgence:

1.  Improved Fastball Performance
Buehler’s signature four-seam fastball, which had lost its edge due to injuries, showed renewed life during the playoffs. He generated more rise on the pitch, leading to an increased swing-and-miss rate (29% in the postseason, up from 17% in the regular season). Trust in his fastball returned as he threw it 37% of the time in October, effectively striking out elite hitters like Francisco Lindor and Aaron Judge. If he can maintain this improvement—and potentially regain some velocity in his second year post-surgery—his fastball could once again be a cornerstone of his success.

2.  Sharper Knuckle-Curve
Buehler’s knuckle-curve was dominant during the postseason, holding hitters to an 0-for-12 record and producing key strikeouts in high-pressure moments. The pitch showed greater vertical and horizontal movement compared to the regular season, boosting its swing-and-miss rate from 27% to 39%. A sharper knuckle-curve paired with an improved fastball gives Buehler the ability to effectively work hitters up and down the zone.

3. Promising Sweeper Development
Buehler’s sweeper, a slider with substantial horizontal break, became a significant weapon in the playoffs. The pitch averaged 19.5 inches of horizontal movement—among the highest in the postseason—while generating a 53% swing-and-miss rate. Although control was occasionally an issue, refining this pitch could make it a key complement to his other offerings, enhancing his overall arsenal.

These improvements showcase Buehler’s potential to return to elite form, making him a high-upside option for 2025.