With only three games left in the 2025 regular season, the Phillies have already locked up a first-round bye. Their playoff journey will begin in the NLDS, most likely against either the New York Mets or Los Angeles Dodgers.
As Philadelphia eyes a deep October run, finalizing the postseason roster has become a major focus. The rotation and everyday lineup appear set, but the bullpen—particularly the back end—remains a question mark.
In a recent article for MLB.com, Todd Zolecki reported that manager Rob Thomson addressed Walker Buehler’s potential role, hinting at his chances of securing a postseason roster spot and how he might be deployed once the NLDS begins.
“He’s in a real good position right now,” Rob Thomson said when asked about Walker Buehler’s chances of cracking the Phillies’ postseason roster. “Just make sure that he’s healthy, No. 1, and that he’s commanding the baseball, especially the fastball. He can get right-handed hitters out.”
Thomson’s comments suggest Buehler is on track to be included in the NLDS roster—and, if Philadelphia advances, throughout the postseason. His versatility makes him a valuable piece, whether as a long reliever or a spot starter.
For the NLDS, Cristopher Sánchez, Jesús Luzardo, and Ranger Suárez appear to be the likely starters. But Buehler could move into a rotation role later in October—potentially in the NLCS or World Series—depending on how Aaron Nola finishes the regular season.
Thomson also hinted at how Buehler might be deployed. His emphasis on Buehler’s ability to handle right-handed hitters suggests the Phillies could use him in relief against a righty-heavy stretch of a lineup. In certain matchups, he could even start, with Luzardo or Suárez shifting to the bullpen.
While the postseason rotation and bullpen alignment remain unsettled, Buehler’s recent form has made him hard to ignore. Over his last three outings, he has allowed just one run in 13.2 innings, good for a 0.66 ERA.
After playing a key role in closing out the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series championship, Buehler now has the chance to be an impact arm for the Phillies as they pursue a title of their own—and possibly a second straight ring for him personally.