What happened: The San Diego Padres have selected Walker Buehler's minor-league contract, adding the veteran right-hander to their Opening Day roster per reporter Kevin Acee. Buehler, who signed with San Diego in February after two Tommy John surgeries, will earn $1.5 million and is expected to join Germán Márquez in the season-opening rotation. He posted solid spring training numbers: 2-0 in 3 starts with 11.2 IP, 13 K and 4 ER.
Why it matters: The move addresses rotation gaps from injuries to Joe Musgrove and Griffin Canning, providing depth with Buehler's postseason experience from the Dodgers. Buehler's pitch mix evolution post-surgery adds intrigue to his impact on NL West contention.
By the numbers: **Spring Training Stats:** - G: 3 | W-L: 2-0 | IP: 11.2 | ER: 4 (ERA: 3.10) | K: 13 | BB: 4 **Projected Opening Rotation:** - Nick Pivetta - Michael King - Randy Vásquez - Germán Márquez - Walker Buehler **Injury Context:** Joe Musgrove (recovery setback), Griffin Canning (Achilles).
What to watch: Watch for Buehler's rotation spot and innings limit in his first outings given injury history. Official lineup announcements expected soon before Opening Day.