When will Walker Buehler be back? All you need to know about Red Sox star’s return

The Boston Red Sox have been facing a setback with one of their key offseason acquisitions, Walker Buehler, being sidelined due to shoulder bursitis. This type of injury can often lead to an extended period on the bench, but the good news is that Buehler will not require surgery and is expected to make a comeback next week.

According to MLB insider Gordon Edes, Buehler is set to return to action next week. Edes also suggested that Hunter Dobbins, who filled in for Buehler in the rotation, should remain as a permanent fixture due to his impressive performance while Buehler was out. Edes proposed that Tanner Houck, who has been struggling with an 8.04 ERA and negative bWAR, should make way for Buehler in the rotation.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora confirmed that Buehler is on track to return during the series against the New York Mets from May 19-21, aligning with Edes’ report.

In another development, there seems to be tension between Red Sox star Rafael Devers and the team. Devers was reportedly unhappy with being moved from third base to a full-time designated hitter role. The arrival of Alex Bregman and Triston Casas’ injury led to the team asking Devers to play first base, a request that he turned down, causing frustration.

Despite signing an extension in 2023, Devers’ future with the Red Sox remains uncertain, as per Sports Illustrated’s Ken Rosenthal. Rosenthal suggested that a trade involving Devers, despite his hefty contract, is not out of the realm of possibility. With the potential opt-out of Bregman after this season, the Red Sox could potentially use Marcelo Mayer at third base and retain Devers as a DH due to his offensive prowess.

In conclusion, the Red Sox are facing challenges with injuries and player dynamics, but the team is working towards finding the right balance to ensure success on the field. It will be interesting to see how the situation with Buehler and Devers unfolds in the coming weeks.