ANAHEIM, Calif.—Recent MRI examinations have revealed that Los Angeles Angels’ reliever Robert Stephenson has avoided structural damage to his surgically rebuilt right elbow. However, the 32-year-old pitcher has been diagnosed with a stretched biceps nerve, a condition that will keep him off the field indefinitely.
“It’s a relief that there’s no serious injury,” Stephenson commented prior to the Angels’ matchup against the Seattle Mariners on Saturday night. “The situation is unpredictable; it might resolve overnight or linger for weeks. It’s quite uncertain.”
Stephenson, who was anticipated to be one of the leading relief pitchers for the Angels after signing a lucrative three-year contract worth $33 million in January 2024, was unable to play last season. He underwent ulnar collateral ligament surgery, complete with an internal brace, in May 2024.
He made a promising return on May 28, delivering a flawless 12-pitch inning against the New York Yankees. Unfortunately, discomfort set in as he prepared for a May 30 game in Cleveland, where he was removed after just three pitches.
“This isn’t something you can address like a typical muscle or ligament issue,” Stephenson explained. “We’re waiting for the nerve to calm down before resuming my throwing routine. It’s a peculiar injury and uncommon. Doctors informed me of a similar case in 2018, but there’s limited precedent for treatment.”