Brock Stewart was the Los Angeles Dodgers’ key trade deadline acquisition at the MLB trade deadline, and the expectation was he would help solidify their right-handed relief group.
But Stewart only made four appearances before landing on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. Stewart underwent treatment, including multiple cortisone shots, that helped relieve the pain.
The right-hander then began a rehab assignment in the middle of September, and the expectation was he would join the Dodgers during their series in Arizona. However, Stewart dealt with continued discomfort after throwing, which put his season in jeopardy.
The Dodgers now have more clarity on Stewart as he will undergo season-ending shoulder surgery, general manager Brandon Gomes said via Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic:
Brock Stewart is having a debridement procedure in that right shoulder and is expected to be back for “the majority” of next season, Brandon Gomes said. https://t.co/83zdGU4Zy3
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) September 27, 2025
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Stewart was “pitchable” after throwing in front of trainers on Wednesday. But after Stewart went to visit Dr. Neal ElAttrache, they made the decision that the reliever needed a debridement procedure in his shoulder.
The 33-year-old has been oft injured in his career, which has included Tommy John surgery, shoulder tendinitis, a bone spur and other various shoulder issues.
Since his debut in 2016, Stewart has thrown just 186.2 innings over his career with a 4.48 ERA. After becoming a full-time reliever in 2019, Stewart has thrown 106.2 innings over 100 games with a 4.22 ERA.
This year, Stewart threw 37.2 innings with a 2.63 ERA, 10.51 strikeouts per nine and 3.11 walks per nine with a 1.19 WHIP and 16 holds. The Dodgers acquired him from the Minnesota Twins for James Outman.
Without Stewart, the Dodgers will likely give a larger opportunity to Will Klein, who has impressed in his short stint with the club. Kyle Hurt is also an option to join the bullpen, but the club only has three games remaining for any auditions.
Roki Sasaki also previously joined the bullpen and could end up in high-leverage situations.
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