After welcoming back the likes of Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, Michael Kopech and Alex Vesia in recent weeks, the Los Angeles Dodgers bullpen could soon see the return of Brock Stewart.
The Dodgers reunited with Stewart at the trade deadline in a deal that sent James Outman to the Minnesota Twins, but he has made only four appearances thus far due to right shoulder inflammation.
There was optimism that Stewart’s condition wasn’t too severe and it would lend to a relatively quick recovery. However, he suffered a setback that necessitated a second cortisone injection.
Now on the mend again, Stewart is expected to begin a brief rehab assignment in the coming days before rejoining the Dodgers, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
Roberts said right-hander Brock Stewart has been throwing to hitters in Los Angeles this weekend and will go out on a “quick” rehab assignment this week, just one or two appearances.
Stewart’s rehab assignment is coming with Triple-A Oklahoma City. He’s expected to pitch for the Comets on Tuesday and Thursday.
Stewart’s imminent return should be a boost to a bullpen that has struggled with inconsistency this season.
The 33-year-old thrived in high-leverage situations with the Twins this season and was particularly successful against right-handed batters. The Dodgers hope Stewart can be just as impactful for them down the stretch and into the postseason.
Stewart allowed two runs in just 3.2 innings pitched for L.A. before landing on the 15-day injured list.
Brock Stewart needed second cortisone injection
In similar fashion to what transpired with Kiké Hernández needing multiple rounds of injections for his left elbow, Stewart has responded more productively to a second cortisone shot.
“That one took way better and was way more effective,” Stewart said. “I took a couple days off just to let it settle in.
“And then I had some throwing capacity already built up, because I kind of started the throwing program, and then there’s some discomfort. And then we got the other shot, so I was able to build up pretty quickly.”
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