Walker Buehler’s 2025 contract is a reflection of his value as a premier pitcher in MLB. The Boston Red Sox have made a strategic investment, and fans will eagerly watch to see if he can deliver performances worthy of his salary
Whether or not the mutual option is exercised, Buehler is in a strong position to command even greater earnings in the future.
Walker Buehler’s career is a testament to talent, resilience, and determination.
As he dons the Red Sox uniform for the 2025 season, both he and the organization are poised for a partnership that aspires to achieve excellence and add new chapters to the rich history of Boston baseball.
Also Read: Walker Buehler Update: Injury Comeback Hindered by Struggles in Rehab Start
Table of Contents
Walker Buehler: Who Is He?
Early Life and Education
Walker Buehler was born on July 28, 1994, in Lexington, Kentucky.1
He attended Henry Clay High School, where he showcased exceptional talent in baseball, leading to his selection in the 14th round of the 2012 MLB Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
However, Buehler chose to further his education and athletic development by enrolling at Vanderbilt University.
During his tenure with the Vanderbilt Commodores, he played a pivotal role in securing the 2014 College World Series title, solidifying his reputation as a promising young pitcher.
— Walker Buehler (@buehlersdayoff) March 14, 2025
Professional Beginnings with the Los Angeles Dodgers
In 2015, Buehler’s professional journey commenced when the Los Angeles Dodgers selected him in the first round, 24th overall, of the MLB Draft.
Despite undergoing Tommy John surgery shortly after signing, which sidelined him for a year, Buehler’s resilience and dedication facilitated a swift and successful recovery.
He made his MLB debut on September 7, 2017, and quickly became an integral part of the Dodgers’ pitching rotation.
Walker Buehler: Career
Rise to Stardom and Achievements
Buehler’s impact on the mound was immediate and profound. In 2018, he played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ journey to the World Series, delivering standout performances throughout the postseason.2
His dominance continued over the next few years, earning him All-Star selections in 2019 and 2021.
The 2021 season was particularly noteworthy, as Buehler achieved a career-best 16-4 record with a 2.47 ERA, earning him a spot on the All-MLB First Team and a fourth-place finish in the Cy Young Award voting.
Challenges and Triumphs
The trajectory of Buehler’s career faced challenges due to injuries. He underwent his second Tommy John surgery in 2022, resulting in him missing the entire 2023 season.
His return in 2024 was met with anticipation, but he struggled during the regular season, posting a 1-6 record with a 5.38 ERA over 16 starts.
However, Buehler’s resilience shone through in the postseason, where he delivered a 3.60 ERA across 15 innings, playing a pivotal role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory.
Transition to the Boston Red Sox
Following the 2024 season, Buehler entered free agency and sought a fresh start to rejuvenate his career.
The Boston Red Sox, aiming to bolster their pitching rotation, signed Buehler to a one-year contract worth $21.05 million on December 23, 2024.
The deal includes a $3.05 million signing bonus, a $15 million base salary, and a mutual option for the 2026 season valued at $25 million, with a $3 million buyout.
Additionally, Buehler can earn $500,000 bonuses for every two starts between his 20th and 28th starts in 2025.
Walker Buehler: Role and Expectations with the Red Sox
Buehler’s acquisition is a strategic move by the Red Sox to strengthen their starting rotation, which also features newly acquired left-hander Garrett Crochet, along with Tanner Houck, Brayan Bello, and Lucas Giolito.3
The Red Sox are optimistic that Buehler’s experience and skill set will contribute significantly to their quest for postseason success in the 2025 season.
Recent Performance and Outlook
In a recent spring training game on March 18, 2025, Buehler took the mound against the New York Yankees, facing off against fellow ace Max Fried.
This matchup provided a glimpse into Buehler’s current form and his potential impact in the upcoming season. The Red Sox and their fans are hopeful that Buehler will return to his All-Star form and be a cornerstone of their pitching staff.
Personal Attributes and Legacy
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Buehler is renowned for his competitive spirit, work ethic, and leadership qualities.
His journey from Lexington to MLB stardom serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, exemplifying perseverance in the face of adversity.
As he embarks on this new chapter with the Red Sox, Buehler aims to add to his legacy and contribute to the storied franchise’s success.
Community Engagement and Off-Field Interests
Off the field, Buehler has been actively involved in community service initiatives. He has participated in various charitable events and has shown a commitment to giving back to the community, particularly in supporting youth baseball programs.
His dedication to philanthropy reflects his character and the values he upholds as a professional athlete.
Also Read: Dave Roberts Stands By Walker Buehler Despite Dodgers’ Struggles: A Return to Form Awaited
Walker Buehler’s Contract Breakdown
Walker Buehler, a dominant right-handed pitcher, has secured a lucrative deal with the Boston Red Sox for the 2025 MLB season.
His contract details provide an insightful look into the financial landscape of modern baseball and how elite pitchers are compensated for their talent and performance.
Walker Buehler’s 2025 Salary Breakdown
For the 2025 season, Walker Buehler is set to earn a substantial sum. The deal includes:
- Base Salary: $15,000,000
- Signing Bonus: $3,050,000
- Total Salary (Cap Hit): $18,050,000
This contract structure ensures that Buehler is among the top-paid pitchers in Major League Baseball.
The Mutual Option for 2026
The contract includes a mutual option for 2026, where both Buehler and the Red Sox have the choice to continue their partnership. If exercised:
- Base Salary for 2026: $3,000,000
- Total Contract Value if Option is Exercised: $21,050,000
This mutual option gives flexibility for both the player and the team, allowing them to reassess their commitments after the 2025 season.
Walker Buehler: Comparing his Salary to Other Elite Pitchers
When assessing Buehler’s earnings, it’s useful to compare his contract with other top pitchers.
While some aces command contracts exceeding $30 million annually, Buehler’s deal remains competitive given his talent and recent performances.
How Much Does Buehler Make Per Game?
In the MLB, a standard season consists of 162 games. While starting pitchers typically appear in around 30-35 games per season, dividing his total salary by an estimated 32 starts gives a per-game earning:
- Per Game Salary: $564,062
How Much Does Buehler Earn Per Inning?
Assuming Buehler averages six innings per start over 32 starts, his per-inning earnings can be calculated:
- Total Innings Pitched Estimate: 192 (32 games × 6 innings per game)
- Per Inning Salary: $94,010
How Much Does Buehler Make Per Minute?
Breaking down his earnings further, considering a standard baseball game takes approximately three hours, the per-minute figure is striking:
- Total Minutes Played Estimate: 11,520 (192 innings × 60 minutes per inning)
- Per Minute Earnings: $34.34
The Impact of Buehler’s Contract on the Red Sox
Buehler’s signing represents a major investment by the Red Sox. His performance will be critical to their success, and his salary will be one of the larger financial commitments on their payroll for 2025.
Is Buehler’s Contract a Bargain?
Despite his high salary, Buehler’s contract can be considered a bargain if he delivers elite performances. Compared to contracts of other star pitchers, if he remains healthy and dominant, Boston will benefit significantly from his presence.
Potential Risks in Buehler’s Contract
While Buehler’s talent is undeniable, potential risks exist:
- Injury Concerns: Buehler has previously dealt with injuries, and his durability will be crucial.
- Performance Variability: Like all athletes, fluctuations in form could impact the value of his deal.
- Team Performance: If the Red Sox struggle, even Buehler’s best performances might not translate into team success.
Future Contract Projections
If Buehler performs well in 2025, he could secure a much larger contract in free agency. A long-term deal worth $150 million or more is not out of the question if he remains a top-tier pitcher.
Also Read: Walker Buehler’s Candid Reflection: Excitement for MLB Return Despite Setbacks
