In an exciting development for Dodgers fans, pitcher Walker Buehler is set to make his much-anticipated return to the mound on Monday, as the team activates him from the 15-day injured list. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the news following the team's victory over the Diamondbacks last night.

Buehler's last major league appearance dates back to June 10, 2022, before he went on the injured list due to a flexor strain. Unfortunately, his attempt to rehabilitate the injury was unsuccessful, and he underwent a Tommy John procedure in August, marking the second such surgery of his career. However, Buehler and the team decided to prioritize his long-term health and opted to look ahead to the 2024 season rather than rushing his return late in 2023.

The Dodgers started Buehler on the injured list this season to allow him ample time to regain his peak form. It is worth noting that the right-hander would have been subject to innings restrictions even if he had returned sooner. Thus, the team took a cautious approach in gradually building up his pitch count during his rehab stint.

During his time in the minors, Buehler faced a minor setback when he was struck by a comeback liner in his throwing hand, but it did not result in a serious injury. He steadily improved in subsequent appearances, culminating in an impressive outing for Triple-A Oklahoma City on Tuesday. Buehler pitched five innings, allowing only one run while striking out five batters and issuing no walks. With his pitch count reaching 75, he should be ready to handle a standard workload immediately.

The timing of Buehler's return works in his favor, as his first start will come against the Miami Marlins. The Marlins currently rank near the bottom of the league in on-base percentage and slugging, giving the talented pitcher an opportunity to ease back into the game. If Buehler can rediscover his pre-surgery form, he should have no problem handling more challenging offenses as the season progresses.

Prior to his injury, Buehler established himself as one of the sport's best pitchers between 2018 and 2021, boasting an impressive 2.82 ERA over 95 outings. Although his performance in 2022 was slightly diminished with a 4.02 ERA, his velocity and swinging strike percentage remained consistent. It is likely that Buehler would have returned to his top-of-the-rotation form had it not been for the injury.

The Dodgers have enjoyed solid production from their rotation thus far in the season, with a respectable 3.48 earned run average and a 24.1% strikeout rate, ranking them eighth and sixth in the majors, respectively. However, there have been inconsistencies in the back end of the rotation, with several pitchers dealing with injuries and struggles. Buehler's return will undoubtedly bolster the team's pitching staff and provide a much-needed boost.

Looking ahead, the 2024 season is crucial for Buehler as he approaches free agency next winter. Despite his impressive track record, his injury history may raise concerns among some potential suitors. Nevertheless, if he can stay healthy and maintain his performance, Buehler has the opportunity to position himself favorably for a lucrative long-term deal as he enters his age-30 season.

Dodgers fans and baseball enthusiasts alike eagerly anticipate Buehler's return to the field, as his presence will undoubtedly strengthen the team's pursuit of success in the months to come.