A steel processing line includes a dip tub and a stab roll. The dip tub is filled with a quantity of molten metal. At least a portion of the stab roll is submerged in the quantity of molten metal. The stab roll includes two journals. Each journal is received by an opening defined by a roller sleeve including a ceramic or refractory material. The roller sleeve is disposed between each journal and a bearing block. An inner dimension of each roller sleeve and an outer dimension of each respective journal defines a clearance. The inner dimension of each roller sleeve and the outer dimension of each respective journal is configured such that the clearance persists as the stab roll and the pair of roller sleeves are heated by the molten metal. Alternatively, inserts are fastened to an outer surface of each journal in lieu of the roller sleeves.