The Boston Red Sox recently inked a one-year contract of $21 million with the two-time World Series champion, Walker Buehler, to strengthen their pitching lineup. Buehler missed the entire 2023 season due to his injury and surgery, which continued with certain setbacks during his 2024 season. However, post his Tommy John surgery, his performance improved during the Dodgers’ playoff season, with glimpses of his brilliance. So, the Red Sox are optimistic that his fastball and breaking pitches will continue to reach the epitome in the 2025 season.

The Buehler one-year contract comes with incentives and a 2026 mutual option worth $25 million, accompanied by a $3 million buyout. The deal effectively guarantees him $18.05 million, with additional bonuses tied to his durability. Walker Buehler stands to earn $500,000 for reaching 20 starts, with bonuses awarded for every two starts thereafter, up to 28. While mutual options are rarely exercised, the structure strategically delays some payments, aiding Boston’s financial flexibility.

The Red Sox are building a competitive core with Walker Buehler

According to Mass Live media, Walker Buehler’s decision to wear No. 0 for the Boston Red Sox marks a change from his known No. 21 jersey with the Dodgers since 2018. While it’s understandable that Buehler has an attachment to his previous number, No. 21 holds a revered status in Boston. Even though it hasn’t been officially retired, #21 has been considered off-limits since Roger Clemens departed from the team in 1996, signifying his enduring legacy.

Buehler’s signing comes as part of an aggressive offseason by Red Sox management, intent on shoring up a rotation that struggled to provide stability in recent years. Alongside Buehler, Boston added young left-hander Garrett Crochet, hard-throwing closer Aroldis Chapman, and versatile pitchers Patrick Sandoval and Justin Wilson. The roster refresh signals a clear objective: return the team to postseason contention.

Though Walker Buehler’s last season was underwhelming with a 5.38 ERA across 16 starts, it was also his first full campaign following Tommy John surgery. However, his postseason resurgence for the Dodgers showed glimpses of his previous dominance. By generating more vertical movement on his fastball and reviving his curveball, Buehler struck out 13 batters in 15 innings while surrendering only one home run. Boston hopes this upward trend continues as he takes the mound at Fenway Park.

The Legacy of No. 21 jersey in Boston

Roger Clemens solidified the reputation of jersey number 21 with the Red Sox from 1984 to 1996 as one of the dominant pitchers in MLB history. He was honored with the Cy Young Award three times while playing for the team, bringing excitement to Fenway Park with his competitiveness and remarkable fastball speed. His performances on the pitcher’s mound defined an era in Red Sox baseball history. The number has remained unworn for nearly three decades, showing the respect and admiration that the team and its supporters continue to have for Clemens.

Clemens’ departure from Boston in 1996 and his subsequent success with rivals like the Yankees cast a shadow over his career with the Red Sox. Yet, his impact during his Boston years remains undeniable. The unofficial retirement of the number speaks volumes—it’s a silent tribute to his dominance and a recognition of the complex emotions surrounding his career.

Walker Buehler’s decision to steer clear of No. 21 again underscores this legacy while fascinating fans with his own choice of the unconventional No. 0. As he takes the mound in Fenway Park, all eyes will be on him to see if he can reclaim his dominance and help lead Boston back to contention.

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