Dodgers ace Buehler expected to return Monday

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler is expected to make his return to the big leagues Monday after missing nearly two full years following Tommy John surgery in 2022.

“The plan is Walker’s going to start on Monday,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said after Wednesday’s 8-0 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks. “We’re excited about that. Everything checked out. It’ll be good.”

The Dodgers play at home Monday against the Miami Marlins.

Buehler, a two-time All-Star, hasn’t thrown in a big league game since June 10, 2022, against the San Francisco Giants. He’s trying to become one of the few pitchers to bounce back from a second Tommy John surgery, which usually keeps pitchers off the mound for 12-18 months.

Buehler could make a talented Dodgers team even more formidable. He was one of the best pitchers in baseball during the 2021 season, finishing with a 16-4 record and a 2.47 ERA over 207⅔ innings.

Buehler had an extended rehab assignment in Triple-A over the past month as he prepared for his return, going 0-2 with a 4.15 ERA and 21 strikeouts over 21⅔ innings.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.