Brock Stewart Returns as Dodgers Continue Bullpen Overhaul

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that Brock Stewart is back from the injured list, and in a corresponding move, the team designated Jonathan Hernandez for assignment.

Stewart has been on the injured list since July 31st with shoulder tendinitis, and naturally, the Dodgers have opted to slowly get him back on the mound.

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The righty has been throwing simulated innings and bullpen sessions after taking a pause from pitching.

Meanwhile, the Dodgers have been yo-yoing Hernandez around, DFAing him, re-signing him, and now once again moving on from the veteran to open up a spot for Stewart.

Jul 19, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Brock Stewart (41) reacts during the fifth inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Since joining the Dodgers at last year’s trade deadline, Stewart has dealt with multiple injuries to different parts of his body, but he may finally be able to pitch in the postseason for LA.

Thus far, Stewart has been a pleasant surprise for the Dodgers this year in his limited amount of action. He has pitched 14.2 innings, and Stewart has a 2.45 ERA.

His FIP is 3.97, suggesting some help from his defense, but a 2.09 xERA indicates how well he has been pitching.

There are some red flags: his .118 BABIP suggests some luck on batted balls, but he isn’t walking many hitters, which limits the traffic he allows, and he’s given up a few more home runs than usual.

The underlying indicators paint a complicated pitcher, making Stewart an important pitcher to follow for the rest of the season.

Jul 25, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Dalton Rushing (68) and relief pitcher Brock Stewart (41) celebrate after defeating the New York Mets at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn ImagesWhy do the Dodgers need Stewart back

The Dodgers have been making multiple moves pitching-wise to give their staff some rest, including calling up Emmet Sheehan for long relief.

There are still multiple relievers beyond Stewart who are injured. Edwin Diaz just got added to the IL due to neck inflammation, while Blake Treinen is nursing elbow soreness and Justin Wrobleski is out with left forearm inflammation.

Additionally, Will Klein is out with loose bodies in his elbow, and although surgery is the usual treatment, he hopes rest is enough to get him back on the field.

If Stewart can come in and keep runs off the board while staying healthy, he can help Brock Stewart, Alex Vesia, and Co. by giving them rest and keeping Dave Roberts from calling on his usual arms.