Former Dodgers closer Evan Phillips is still unsigned and remains a free agent, though Los Angeles remains interested in re-signing him.
World Series-winning reliever and former Dodgers closer Evan Phillips is still unsigned and remains a free agent, though Los Angeles remains interested in re-signing him.
The Dodgers made the decision to non-tender Phillips, leaving him as an unrestricted free agent. However, he is still out injured with a torn rotator cuff and forearm inflammation, which led to Tommy John surgery in June 2025, which will keep him out until halfway through the season.
Phillips is focusing on his own recovery, and the Dodgers are seemingly content to keep the roster spot open and revisit his status later in the season, according to The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya.
“Phillips’ return remains up in the air, though there’s been mutual interest throughout the offseason after the Dodgers non-tendered the right-hander as he rehabs from Tommy John surgery. Phillips is set to return as soon as midseason; when healthy, he’s been one of the best value relievers in the sport,” Ardaya wrote in The Athletic.
The Dodgers are looking quite healthy at the reliever position in the depth chart with Edwin Diaz firmly cemented as the closer, Tanner Scott looking poised for a bounce-back season, and multiple arms who can provide stable production in Brock Stewart, Brusdar Graterol, and Alex Vesia.
Additionally, the Dodgers have Edgardo Henriquez, Bobby Miller, Gavin Stone, and River Ryan, four wildcards who have a high ceiling, but they have flaws that could lead to inconsistencies.
While the roster may look strong now at the reliever position, there is always a place for a seasoned, lights-out arm like Phillips, who — when healthy — is one of the best bullpen arms in baseball.
What have the Dodgers said about Evan Phillips?
Amid his free agency and availability, Phillips has received a ringing endorsement from a current Dodgers reliever, who praised his contributions to the team.
“I do talk to Evan (Phillips) quite often,” Tanner Scott said. “I mean, we’ll see where it goes. I like the guy and hope he comes back.”
With pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training on Friday, Phillips will not be on the roster for the time being, but the 60-day IL opens up for the Dodgers to potentially sign Phillips and keep the roster open while he continues to recover.
Category: General Sports
