Alex Cora Names Top Candidate for Walker Buehler Replacement

The Boston Red Sox are shaking up their pitching staff. Veteran right-hander Walker Buehler is out of the starting rotation.

Buehler just hasn’t delivered this season, especially considering his one-year, $21.05 million contract. The team hasn’t named a replacement yet, but young lefty Kyle Harrison seems like the clear frontrunner.

This move feels like a turning point for Boston as they try to stay in the AL East race. There’s a lot riding on how this plays out.

Buehler’s Season of Struggles

Buehler was supposed to start against the Orioles on Monday, but it’s been a rocky year. His stats don’t lie: 7-7 record, 5.40 ERA, and a high 1.56 WHIP over 22 starts.

He’s walked 54 batters and struck out 82, which is a wildly high walk rate for a guy who used to be all about precision. Control just hasn’t been there.

Possible Shift to the Bullpen

On Thursday, rumors started swirling about Boston moving Buehler to the bullpen. That could ease the pressure on his arm and maybe let him face more favorable matchups.

Manager Alex Cora hasn’t confirmed anything. Still, Buehler’s absence from the rotation makes it feel like a real possibility.

For a team fighting for every win, a little flexibility in the pitching staff can make a huge difference.

The Rise of Kyle Harrison

No official word yet, but folks keep mentioning Kyle Harrison as the likely replacement. Boston got him in June from the Giants in the big Rafael Devers trade.

He’s been working on his game with Triple-A Worcester. At 22, he’s got the potential to be a big part of Boston’s future—and maybe their present.

Triple-A Performance

Harrison’s numbers in Worcester look solid:

• 4-2 record in 10 starts
• 3.69 ERA
• 1.59 WHIP
• 46 strikeouts and 25 walks

His latest start was Tuesday—he got the win, giving up three runs in five innings against Jacksonville. The WHIP isn’t perfect, so he’s got to work on keeping runners off base, but he’s showing he’s ready for a shot.

Impact on the Red Sox Rotation

Pulling Buehler from the rotation isn’t just about his numbers. Boston wants to send a message: perform, or make way.

The playoff race is still wide open. Pitching depth could decide everything.

Key Considerations Moving Forward

If Harrison gets the call, Boston has to be careful with his workload. They can’t burn out a young arm, especially in a pennant chase.

• Innings Limit – Harrison’s innings should get monitored closely.
• Adjustment Period – Jumping from Triple-A to MLB is a huge leap, no way around it.
• Buehler’s Role – If he moves to the bullpen, he might become a late-inning weapon.

Boston’s hoping this shuffle can finally settle a rotation that’s been hit with injuries and wild ups and downs all year.

What This Means for Boston’s Season

In the AL East, every game matters. Tinkering with the rotation could either solidify the Red Sox as contenders or expose their depth issues.

Buehler might use this as a chance to reset his season. A less demanding role could help him find his groove.

Harrison gets a shot to prove himself as a front-line starter in the big leagues. That’s a huge opportunity, but also a lot of pressure.

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