Relief pitcher Brock Stewart, a key acquisition at the trade deadline, has been sidelined again due to ongoing shoulder issues, raising alarms among fans and the coaching staff alike.
Just as the Dodgers were gaining momentum, Stewart, who has only pitched four games since joining the team, was hit with another setback. After initially showing promise, allowing just two earned runs over 3.2 innings, he was diagnosed with shoulder inflammation earlier this month. Despite resuming light activities and even pitching again, Stewart has continued to experience discomfort, prompting the team to administer a cortisone injection in a desperate bid to alleviate the pain.
Manager Dave Roberts remains cautiously optimistic, stating that the coaching staff believes Stewart could return in September, just in time for the crucial playoff run. “We still hope to have him back before October,” Roberts affirmed, underscoring the urgency of the situation. With the Dodgers already grappling with other injuries, the return of Stewart is critical for bolstering their bullpen as they head into the postseason.
Stewart, familiar with injury struggles, including a history of shoulder tendinitis and strain, is taking a measured approach to his recovery. “It’s about taking it one day at a time,” he said, emphasizing his focus on rehabilitation over deadlines. His determination is palpable, as he remains hopeful that he can regain the form that saw him post an impressive 2.38 ERA before joining the Dodgers.
As the clock ticks down to October, the question on every fan’s mind is whether Stewart will be able to shake off this latest injury and contribute to the team’s playoff aspirations. With the stakes higher than ever, the Dodgers’ blue family is holding its breath, waiting for news that could shape their postseason journey.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and join the conversation: Can Brock Stewart return in time to help the Dodgers make a deep playoff run? The urgency is palpable, and every moment counts.
