The Los Angeles Dodgers are getting things in order before spring training officially begins in the next week. One of the last free agents the Dodgers had been awaiting a decision from is Evan Phillips. Michael Kopech has also yet to make a decision where he will play in 2026.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan reports on Wednesday that the Dodgers have agreed on a one-year, $6.5 million deal with Evan Phillips. Phillips missed a majority of 2025 due to Tommy John Surgery, and Passan reports he will return around July, which shows the trust Los Angeles has in Phillips to give him a $6.5 million salary for three months of service + MLB playoffs, if the Dodgers are to advance.
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Dodgers Retain Evan Phillips on One-Year Deal
Evan Phillips, 31, is somewhat of a journeyman reliever across MLB, but like many other pitchers in recent memory, found a resurgence with the Dodgers.
He joined the Dodgers in 2021, coming over from the Tampa Bay Rays, but made a strong impression during the 2022 season by posting a 1.14 ERA over 63 innings with the Dodgers.
2023 has probably been Phillips’ best season as a pro, considering he tallied 24 saves along with a 2.05 ERA over 61.1 innings.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – MAY 02: Evan Phillips #59 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after their 2-1 win against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on May 02, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Phillips came up with the Braves in 2018, but bounced around from Atlanta to the Orioles and Rays before settling with LA.
It’s no surprise that the Dodgers are so high on Phillips, as he has a 2.22 ERA with the organization over 195 innings, and was a huge part of the incredible bullpen effort that led to a 2024 World Series title.
He will also receive a ring for the 2025 season, but his work was much more limited due to the Tommy John Surgery in May. In seven appearances last season, Phillips gave up zero runs.
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Dodgers 2026 Bullpen Outlook
The Dodgers had very mixed results in the bullpen last season. After acquiring Kirby Yates, Tanner Scott, and re-signing Blake Treinen, only Treinen was used in the MLB playoffs consistently.
That spurred LA to go out and acquire the biggest reliever on the market, Edwin Diaz, to become the new closer, which might alleviate some pressure off Tanner Scott in his new role. Scott led MLB in blown saves last season, and both Treinen and Yates posted inflated ERAs.
However, Los Angeles continues to pour money into its bullpen, and that is once again apparent with this Evan Phillips signing.
Anthony Banda was also recently designated for assignment by the Dodgers, and there are rumors he might be traded this week.
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