The Los Angeles Dodgers have yet to finalize whether they’re bringing back fan favorites such as Teoscar Hernández, Kiké Hernández, and Walker Buehler.

The Dodgers offered Teoscar Hernández a qualifying offer, which he rejected. They didn’t give one to Buehler.

The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reported that Buehler likely would have accepted the qualifying offer. The right-hander likely would’ve said yes to a one-year offer, but begrudgingly.

Rosenthal explains: “The qualifying offer would have damaged Buehler in the market, leaving him with almost no choice but to accept. The Dodgers, as a team that will pay the luxury tax, only would have received a pick after the fourth round if he rejected.

This way, Buehler can negotiate a multiyear deal with the team of his choosing. Conceivably, that team could be the Dodgers. But other teams might value Buehler more.”

Had the Dodgers put a $21 million price stamp on Buehler with draft pick compensation, other interested clubs would’ve likely been less interested in adding Buehler. Therefore, the Dodgers actually gave Buehler more freedom and financial opportunity by not extending a one-year deal worth $21.05 million.

In the regular season, Buehler had a 5.38 ERA in 16 starts. Once the Dodgers reached the playoffs, Buehler flipped a switch. The right-hander that had once struggled with his command suddenly looked in full form.

Buehler led the Dodgers to their third straight win in the Fall Classic in Game 3, and also volunteered to pitch in relief in Game 5 of the World Series.

Buehler tossed 10 scoreless innings in the NLCS and World Series.

The right-hander not only closed the World Series, but he also closed the chapter of a 2024 season filled with struggle that finished with poise.

Buehler’s lights out performance in the postseason proved to clubs around the league that he is a valuable asset.

Although the Dodgers turned to Buehler out of necessity, he emerged as a better version of himself when Los Angeles needed him most.

The right-hander’s unforgettable performance won’t be forgotten by Dodgers fans, and many hope to see Buehler return.