The Los Angeles Dodgers shut down Brock Stewart at the end of last season due to right shoulder inflammation shortly after trading for him.
The team decided to have the reliever undergo right shoulder surgery last season to prioritize his long-term health, a decision that has led to encouraging results in 2026.
Stewart was initially projected to have a slightly delayed start to this season as he recovered from his procedure, but was progressing better than expected at the start of this month.
He has continued to make headway on this new timeline, with the Dodgers now projecting a first-half return for the veteran reliever, according to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
Reliever Brock Stewart continues to progress in his recovery from shoulder surgery last September. He threw another bullpen session Tuesday, his second using his full pitch mix.
Stewart still has to progress through multiple bullpen sessions to facing hitters in live batting practice and then getting into games on a minor-league injury-rehabilitation assignment. But he is on track to return in the first half of the season.
Having a right-handed bullpen arm on an accelerated timeline is good news for the Dodgers, given the questions about Brusdar Graterol’s availability this season.
The last update received about Graterol’s status was that he was not ready for Opening Day and was in a “holding pattern” with his throwing program.
Stewart only appeared in four games for the Dodgers last season before his injury. He did not achieve great results in that short timeframe, allowing two runs in 3.2 innings, but the hope is that better health and more time in the Dodgers’ building will lead to improved results.
Blake Snell throws off mound
The Dodgers received additional encouraging news this week as Blake Snell threw off a mound for the first time this spring to a catcher standing up behind the plate.
That represented a major checkpoint in his recovery. He still has to throw bullpen sessions, face batters and potentially complete a Minor League rehab assignment before returning to the Dodgers.
Make sure to follow Dodger Blue on Instagram! It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
