Exasperating Brock Stewart move makes Dodgers’ underwhelming 2025 trade deadline a total bust

It was an underwhelming trade deadline for the Los Angeles Dodgers last summer. After weeks of rumors suggesting the Dodgers would pursue a trade for Cleveland Guardians' All-Star outfielder Steven Kwan or bolster the rotation with a deal for Sandy Alcantara, LA made a series of under-the-radar moves that included reuniting with relief pitcher Brock Stewart.

The Dodgers never turn down an opportunity to add pitching depth, and considering the mess that was their bullpen during the regular season last year, it made sense that the team had an eye on Stewart. The 34-year-old posted an ERA of 2.38 through his first 39 appearances with the Minnesota Twins, and the hope was that he could stabilize the middle innings for the pitching staff.

Instead, Stewart's second stint with the Dodges has been defined by injuries. A shoulder injury ended his 2025 season after just four appearances following the deadline, and he finally made his return to the bullpen last week. It's a short-lived return as Stewart has landed back on the IL and will be sidelined for the next several weeks.

Stewart had struck out three of the seven hitters he faced upon his return, and it was a sign that the stability in the bullpen the Dodgers were looking for last summer would finally be had this year. Instead, he's going to be out for the next three weeks, but it's hard to be optimistic about the timeline, considering how his tenure has gone thus far.

At least the Dodgers only gave up on James Outman

To be fair, all the Dodgers gave up in the trade was outfielder James Outman. Outman fell on hard times during his final years in Los Angeles, and things haven't gotten any better. He's carrying a wRC+ of -4 through his first 35 plate appearances while striking out over 37% of the time. The fact that the Dodgers got anything for Outman is a victory in itself.

That being said, perhaps the Dodgers aim higher this summer. Sure, it's hard to take issue with the moves that were made, considering the Dodgers ultimately won the World Series, but the journey to the point could have been easier.

One thing is certain: the Dodgers have the farm system to make just about any trade they desire this summer.

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