Brock Stewart Trade: Dodgers Acquire RHP from Twins
Brock Stewart Returns to Dodgers in Trade Deadline Move
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The Los Angeles Dodgers have reportedly acquired right-handed pitcher Brock Stewart from the Minnesota Twins ahead of Thursday’s 3 p.m. PT Trade Deadline, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. While the clubs have yet to officially confirm the deal, the move signals a strategic addition to the Dodgers’ bullpen, particularly in their search for reliable arms to get right-handed hitters out.
A Familiar Face, A New Pitcher
This acquisition marks a reunion for Stewart and the Dodgers, who originally selected the 33-year-old in the sixth round of the 2014 MLB Draft. Stewart spent the initial four seasons of his big league career with Los Angeles,appearing in 36 games (11 starts) and posting a 5.46 ERA between 2016 and 2019.
though, the pitcher the Dodgers are welcoming back is a considerably evolved version of the one who previously donned their uniform. Stewart is currently enjoying one of the most accomplished seasons of his career, boasting a 2.38 ERA across 39 appearances. He has demonstrated impressive control, striking out 41 batters against just 11 walks in 34 innings pitched.
Velocity and Effectiveness Surge
A key indicator of Stewart’s growth is the significant uptick in his fastball velocity. In 2019, his last year with the Dodgers organization, his fastball averaged 91.5 mph. Now, that average has climbed to a formidable 96.1 mph. This increased velocity, coupled with his refined pitching arsenal, has made him particularly effective against right-handed batters, whom he is holding to a mere .327 OPS this season.
Addressing Bullpen Needs
The Dodgers entered the Trade Deadline with a clear need for a right-handed specialist, making Stewart an ideal fit. His ability to neutralize righties, combined with two additional seasons of club control, addresses a critical area of concern for the team. He is expected to serve as a key component in the bridge to the ninth inning, a role that has seen its share of challenges for Los Angeles.
While the Dodgers were unlikely to pursue a top-tier closer at the deadline, especially given the high prospect costs seen in trades for players like Mason Miller, Tyler Rogers, and Jhoan Duran, stewart’s acquisition provides valuable depth. The team currently has several pitchers capable of closing games, including Tanner Scott, Blake Treinen, Alex Vesia, Kirby Yates, Michael Kopech, and Brusdar Graterol. Though,injuries and inconsistency have plagued the back end of their bullpen. Scott, Kopech, and Graterol are currently on the injured list but are anticipated to return before the season concludes. Yates has struggled with reliability, and Treinen has shown rust in recent outings after a lengthy absence due to a forearm injury.
Broader Roster Moves
In addition to the Stewart trade, the Dodgers were also involved in a three-team deal on Wednesday night.This transaction saw them send catcher Hunter Feduccia to the Tampa Bay Rays, while acquiring depth catcher Ben Rortvedt, right-handed reliever Paul Gervase, and left-handed pitching prospect Adam Serwinowski from the Cincinnati reds. These moves underscore the Dodgers’ proactive approach to strengthening their roster as they head into the crucial latter half of the season.