Buehler, who pitched for the Dodgers from 2017-24, turned down a $20 million offer from Los Angeles after entering free agency. After Tommy John surgery sidelined him for the 2023 season, he joined Boston but was released midway through 2025 after posting a 5.45 ERA. He finished the year with Philadelphia, where he had a 0.66 ERA in three appearances.
The Padres, who have lost several pitchers this offseason, could give Buehler a chance to re-establish himself as a proven MLB starter. Buehler had a 3.27 ERA in 131 appearances with the Dodgers and made two All-Star teams during his time in Los Angeles.