Robert Stephenson

Los Angeles Angels right-handed reliever Robert Stephenson (elbow) underwent elbow surgery and is expected to be out for the entire 2026 season, manager Kurt Suzuki told Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com. Stephenson has dealt with elbow issues with the Angels and pitched only 10 innings during his three-year deal with the organization. More right-elbow issues surfaced for the 33-year-old veteran during spring training, and he landed on the 60-day injured list before the start of the regular season. Stephenson specifically had ligament and flexor-repair surgery, so he was able to avoid another UCL reconstruction, but it doesn't change the fact that he'll miss the entire season. The Angels have a $2.5 million team option on Stephenson for the 2027 season, but after all of his right-elbow issues, it wouldn't be a surprise if they let him reach the open market next winter. Right-hander Jordan Romano has looked good as the Angels' closer early on this year, with Stephenson (elbow), Ben Joyce (shoulder), and Kirby Yates (knee) all sidelined.