The Los Angeles Dodgers reacquired Brock Stewart from the Minnesota Twins at the MLB trade deadline last year with an eye on bolstering their bullpen for the stretch run.
Stewart only appeared in four games with the Dodgers before going on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation. The prolonged recovery process included the 34-year-old needing a second cortisone injection before relief and improvement set in.
Stewart managed to pitch in three games with Triple-A Oklahoma City as part of a rehab assignment before undergoing season-ending right shoulder surgery.
Stewart shed some light on the procedure and hopes it leads to improved health for the 2026 season, via Jack Harris of the California Post:
“Shaved up a bone spur, kind of took out part of my clavicle, took out the bursa,” Stewart said nonchalantly, hopeful that the rather gory specifics of the operation will finally lead to better health moving forward.
“It just essentially gave me way more room for the head of my humerus to rotate,” Stewart added. “Feels much better. I can tell inherently it’s very much cleaned up. The throw feels good.”
Stewart has dealt with several shoulder injuries throughout his career and hopes the operation put an end to all of his previous trouble:
“I’ve pitched in 13 professional seasons, and it seems like half of those seasons I’ve dealt with something in my shoulder,” he said. “So, it is what it is. Hopefully, this took care of those chronic issues.”
Stewart likely won’t be ready for Opening Day, but is confident that he’ll be able to pitch the majority of the season. The right-hander has already resumed baseball activities and is on track to throw his first bullpen session in the coming weeks.
Brock Stewart’s role with Dodgers
Unlike last season when the Dodgers envisioned Stewart pitching in high-leverage situations, he may not be needed for such a role this year due to the team’s revamped bullpen that includes free agent signing Edwin Díaz.
The Dodgers also expect Tanner Scott and Blake Treinen to bounce back, while Brusdar Graterol figures to be an option down the line as well. Stewart should still serve as important right-handed depth, and his veteran experience cannot be overlooked either.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
