Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler faced an unexpected off-field challenge before taking the mound in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the San Diego Padres. Buehler and teammate Jack Flaherty visited California’s Crown Racing, where Buehler’s expensive wristwatch was stolen. On Wednesday, the Associated Press reported that Buehler was targeted by a pickpocketing ring just before the crucial game at Petco Park.
Unfortunately, Buehler’s night only got worse from there. Starting with the series tied 1-1, Buehler struggled mightily, giving up six runs in the second inning alone. He allowed seven hits and six earned runs over five innings, including a pivotal two-run homer to Fernando Tatis Jr. with two outs in the second inning, which shifted the momentum entirely to San Diego.
Visibly frustrated after the tough second inning, Buehler angrily returned to the dugout, throwing his glove and kicking a trash can. While he settled down and pitched scoreless innings after that disastrous second inning, the damage was done. The Dodgers lost 6-5, falling behind 2-1 in the series. In a post-game interview, Buehler acknowledged that giving up the homer to Tatis was a turning point and admitted, “I didn’t pitch well.”
Buehler has a track record of strong postseason performances. In 2020, during the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the St. Louis Cardinals, he posted an incredible 0.82 ERA over two games, earning a win. He also played a key role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory over the Tampa Bay Rays, allowing just one run over six innings. However, this year’s postseason marked his return after a three-year absence due to surgery and rehabilitation, and his Game 3 performance left many fans disappointed.
Now, with their season on the line, the Dodgers face a must-win situation in Game 4 on Thursday at the same venue. They need a victory to avoid elimination from the NLDS.
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