Angels reliever Robert Stephenson has undergone Tommy John surgery and will miss the entire 2023 season. The injury occurred during his rehab outing on April 13th and will require an internal brace to support the reconstructed ulnar collateral ligament. Stephenson was expected to be the primary setup man for closer Carlos Estévez and was a key part of the Angels’ bullpen. The Angels have an option to bring Stephenson back in 2027 for $2.5 million.
Los Angeles Angels reliever Robert Stephenson will undergo Tommy John surgery and an internal brace procedure next week, sidelining him into the 2025 season. The Angels initially announced Stephenson’s elbow injury would force him to miss the 2024 campaign. Stephenson expressed optimism about an early return next year, despite the typical 14-16 month recovery period for Tommy John surgery. The injury has contractual implications, triggering a modest $2.5 million club option for 2027 instead of the conditional option for a serious elbow injury. Stephenson’s absence is a significant blow to the Angels’ bullpen, as he was expected to play a key role as a setup man after his impressive performance with the Tampa Bay Rays last season.
