Buehler, who pitched for the Dodgers from 2017-24, turned down a $20 million offer from Los Angeles before joining Boston, where he struggled with a 5.45 ERA. The Red Sox released him midway through the season, and he finished with the Phillies, posting a 0.66 ERA in three appearances.
The Padres, who have lost several pitchers this offseason, see Buehler as a potential addition to their rotation. If he makes the Opening Day roster, Buehler will have a chance to re-establish himself as a proven MLB starter in 2026.