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Los Angeles Dodgers Top Ten Prospects For 2017

By Benjamin Chase

Sep 11, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers baseball cap is seen on the dugout steps with an american flag prior to the game against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers baseball cap is seen on the dugout steps with an american flag prior to the game against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Walker Buehler, RHP

Birthdate: 7/28/94 (22 years old)
Level(s) Played in 2016: rookie, low A
Stats in 2016: 5 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.60 WHIP, 16.67 BB%, 33.33 K%

Buehler was essentially on a redshirt season this year after having Tommy John surgery in August of 2015. He did make it back to the mound for 3 appearances and 5 innings, but not a whole lot can be deciphered from those appearances.

At Vanderbilt, he was the ace of the 2014 College World Series championship team that featured Dansby Swanson and Carson Fullmer, who both went in the top ten selections in 2015. Many thought that the Dodgers got a steal when they were able to coax Buehler into signing a below-slot deal after selecting him 24th overall.

When healthy, Buehler was able to ring back up some solid velocity, but not quite to the 96 MPH that he was touching in college

In coming back, many have reported that they are encouraged by the added “fill” that Buehler brought to his body during his TJS rehab, allowing him to look more the part of the dominant ace on the mound, but also with the weight being “good” weight, he has the look of a guy who can hold up for long hauls better than the 6’2, 175-pound guy that was drafted a year ago.

When healthy, Buehler was able to ring back up some solid velocity, but not quite to the 96 MPH that he was touching in college. His breaking pitches both had great action, which was encouraging, but his change left a lot to be desired in deception and control with the pitch.

Buehler will likely start in the low-A Midwest League next year to get his feet under him, but I could see him moving quickly once he builds up a year of innings on the arm again.

Next: #6

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