As the MLB trade deadline intensifies, the Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant move to strengthen their pitching staff, officially reacquiring right-handed reliever Brock Stewart in a trade with the Minnesota Twins. This reunion brings an experienced arm back to Dodger Stadium, aiming to address the team’s pressing bullpen needs reported by prominent sports outlets.

Stewart’s return to the Dodgers organization marks a notable full-circle moment for the pitcher, who initially came up through their system. While he began his career as a starter, his transformation into a high-quality reliever has been propelled by a substantial uptick in his velocity, making him a more formidable presence on the mound.

The right-hander boasts an impressive five-pitch mix, featuring a potent 95 mph fastball, a deceptive changeup, and an effective sweeper. This diverse pitching arsenal is designed to miss bats, evidenced by his remarkable 30% strikeout rate, while maintaining excellent control with only an 8% walk rate this season.

His consistent performance has earned him a reputation as a trustworthy option in high-leverage situations. With a stellar 2.38 ERA across 38 innings, Stewart has demonstrated his capability to hold leads, accumulating 14 holds and losing only one lead so far this season, making him an ideal candidate for a seventh or eighth-inning setup role.

Despite his recent success, a primary concern surrounding Brock Stewart remains his health. The seasoned reliever has not exceeded 40 innings pitched in recent years and has not completed an entire season without significant time on the injured list in seven years. Earlier this year, he dealt with a hamstring strain, highlighting his susceptibility to injury.

The acquisition comes at a critical juncture for the Los Angeles Dodgers, whose bullpen has faced considerable challenges, posting an ERA north of four prior to this trade. The unit has been particularly weary, with several key relievers sidelined, underscoring the urgent need for a reliable arm like Stewart to absorb crucial innings.

While Brock Stewart may not be the high-profile acquisition many Dodgers fans anticipated, his potential to stay healthy and effective could be a game-changer for the team’s championship aspirations. If he can maintain his form, his return could provide the much-needed stability and depth to a bullpen looking to solidify its late-game performance.