The Dodgers have taken a commanding 3-0 lead over the Yankees, and the World Series now seems nearly wrapped up. Game 3 featured standout performances by two players that should catch the attention of Braves fans: Freddie Freeman and Walker Buehler.
Freeman quickly put Los Angeles on the board with a two-run homer in the first inning, marking his third homer in a span of just six at-bats. The longtime Braves icon has now homered in five consecutive World Series games dating back to 2021 when he helped Atlanta defeat Houston in six games. While seeing Freeman shine on baseball’s biggest stage with the Dodgers might be bittersweet, it’s hard not to root for a player who gave so much to Atlanta over his decade-long tenure.
But this piece isn’t about reliving the past; it’s about a potential future Braves free agent target, Walker Buehler, and his impressive Game 3 showing.
The Braves need to strengthen the back end of their rotation, and Buehler could be an intriguing high-upside option, potentially interested in a short-term deal to rebuild his value. Just a couple of years ago, he was on track for a mega-contract, but injuries have hampered his progress. He struggled through the regular season, posting a 5.84 ERA over his first eight starts and a 4.93 ERA in his last eight starts, with a stint on the IL due to a hip injury in between. But last night, Buehler delivered a vintage performance.
He allowed just four baserunners—two hits and two walks—and struck out five Yankees across five scoreless innings. After a year filled with questions about whether he’d regain his ace form, Buehler came through with the Dodgers’ most critical win of the season in a charged Yankee Stadium atmosphere.
A one-year deal in the $10-20 million range could be just what Buehler seeks this offseason to restore his free-agent value before aiming for a longer-term contract. If the Dodgers are hesitant, the Braves could be well-positioned to make a move.
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Photographer: Jeff Robinson/Icon Sportswire
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