Robert Stephenson's spot on the Los Angeles Angels' 2026 Opening Day roster always felt rather tenuous. Performance was never the question — though he's yet to appear in a Cactus League game this spring — but his health was always a concern. Stephenson appeared in just 12 games for the Angels in 2025 and ended the year on the injured list with inflammation in his right elbow.
Unfortunately, Stephenson has suffered yet another setback. Over the weekend, MLB.com writer Steve Stockmar reported that the Angels hurler was fighting back tears before Saturday's game after revealing that he “felt something” after his most recent bullpen session.