The rivalry between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres is one of the most explosive in all of MLB, but now a new element has been added to the clashes between the two teams that will battle in 2026 to conquer the National League West.
Former Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler signed a minor league contract with the Padres, and it was inevitable that questions would arise about his past – leading to a candid confession about joining the division’s fiercest rival.
Walker Buehler admits it feels “a little weird” to join the Padres
After spending the first seven seasons of his career with Los Angeles, he admitted it feels “a little weird” to now be with the San Diego Padres, though he acknowledged it’s a great opportunity to prove he can still dominate in Major League Baseball.
“Yeah, it feels a little weird. I imagine five years ago, it would’ve been a lot more weird. But this is a crazy game, and this is a great opportunity for me to again be part of a really talented baseball club, and it’s what I’m here to do,” Buehler said.
“Obviously, some familiarity with the NL West,” Buehler continued. “Living in Southern California is something that my family and I are accustomed to. And you know, good opportunity to be a part of a really talented ball club. And you know, looking forward to seeing what we can make of it.”
Buehler underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022, so after stints with the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies, he hopes to return to a starting rotation role.
This Spring Training 2026 will serve as the pitcher’s proving ground to convince the Padres that he can help them conquer the NL West – though there’s no doubt the Dodgers remain the overwhelming favorites.
Read the full article here
