As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare to face the New York Yankees in the World Series, all eyes will be on former Vanderbilt Commodores standout Walker Buehler. The right-hander, who has struggled to regain his All-Star form since undergoing Tommy John surgery, has been given the nod to start Game 3 in the Bronx - a high-stakes opportunity to prove his worth on the grandest stage in baseball.

A Chance to Shine on the World's Biggest Stage

A Homecoming with High Expectations

Buehler's start in Game 3 will mark his first-ever appearance at the iconic Yankee Stadium, adding an extra layer of excitement and pressure to the proceedings. The Lexington, Kentucky native has never before pitched in the Bronx, and he acknowledges the significance of the moment. "I've never thrown here, so that will be exciting. Game 3 in the World Series, it doesn't get more exciting than that," Buehler said, his voice brimming with anticipation.

Seeking Redemption After a Challenging Season

The 2024 campaign has been a tumultuous one for Buehler, who has struggled to regain the form that made him an All-Star in previous seasons. After missing the entire 2023 season due to Tommy John surgery, the right-hander has had a difficult time finding his groove, finishing the regular season with a 1-6 record and a 5.38 ERA. He's also allowed 16 home runs and recorded just 64 strikeouts over 75.1 innings of work.Buehler's postseason performance has been a mixed bag as well. He started rough in the National League Division Series, allowing six runs across five innings against the San Diego Padres. However, he redeemed himself in the next round against the New York Mets, tossing four shutout innings and striking out six batters. Now, he'll have another opportunity to prove his worth on the biggest stage of all.

The Importance of Weather and Conditions

Buehler believes that the weather and the stadium's conditions will play a crucial role in his success on the mound. The former Vanderbilt standout has expressed a preference for pitching in colder weather, as he believes it helps with the movement of his pitches. "I think the weather and the stadium has something to do with it," Buehler said. "I said before that game [NLCS vs. Mets], I like pitching in the cold, so I am hoping it gets down there a little bit."The forecast for the start of Game 3 is predicted to be 52 degrees, mostly clear with a slight breeze - conditions that could potentially play to Buehler's advantage as he seeks to silence the Yankees' potent lineup.

A Potential Farewell Performance?

Adding to the drama surrounding Buehler's start is the fact that it could be his final appearance as a Dodger. The right-hander is set to become a free agent once the season comes to an end, and he may be looking to sign a "prove it" deal with another team after the challenging year he's had. This could be his last chance to showcase his talents and convince potential suitors of his value, making the stakes even higher for the former first-round pick.As the Dodgers look to extend their series lead to 3-0, all eyes will be on Buehler as he takes the mound at Yankee Stadium, seeking redemption and a chance to cement his place as one of the game's elite pitchers. The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown, and Buehler's performance could have far-reaching implications for his future in the sport.