### Walker Buehler Declines Athletics' Offer, Eyes Competitive Suitors

Walker Buehler has become one of the most intriguing free agents this offseason following his mixed performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite a challenging regular season that saw him post a 5.38 ERA over 75.1 innings, Buehler redeemed himself during the postseason. He excelled in the National League Championship Series and World Series, finishing strongly with a streak of 10 innings without conceding a run, including a save in Game 5.

Formerly an ace and top-tier pitcher, Buehler's performance has faltered since his second Tommy John surgery. Nevertheless, his consistent postseason prowess and late-season resurgence have caught the attention of several teams. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and Chicago Cubs have all expressed varying levels of interest in the right-hander.

One team that won't be securing Buehler's services, however, is the Oakland Athletics. According to Athletics manager Mark Kotsay, Buehler declined an offer to play in Sacramento, which will be the temporary home for the A's from 2025 to at least 2027 as they transition from Oakland to Las Vegas. The A's are set to play at Sutter Health Park, a Minor League stadium that is also the home of the Sacramento River Cats, the Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.

Given his competitive nature and the prospect of playing at a Minor League ballpark, it's not surprising that Buehler turned down the A's offer. He is likely prioritizing teams with realistic postseason aspirations, especially given the A's current rebuilding phase and unlikely playoff contention.

Adding to his postseason mystique, Buehler admitted to lying to Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior about his readiness to pitch in Game 5 of the World Series. Despite telling Prior he hadn't thrown before entering the game, Buehler struck out two of the three batters he faced on 16 pitches, securing his first Major League save and ending an impressive postseason campaign for both him and the Dodgers.

As the free agency market heats up, Buehler’s competitive drive and his desire to win another World Series will likely influence his decision on where to play next season.