Veteran reliever Evan Phillips was non-tendered, shaking up the Dodgers' bullpen.
The Dodgers made a surprising roster move ahead of Friday’s 2 p.m. PT non-tender deadline, parting ways with veteran reliever Evan Phillips, according to a report from The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. While the organization has not formally announced the transaction, the decision signals a notable shift for a bullpen that struggled to maintain consistency throughout the 2025 season.
Phillips, now 31, has been one of the Dodgers’ most reliable pitchers for multiple seasons. After joining the team in 2021, he quickly progressed from a waiver claim to a key late-inning reliever. Over five seasons with Los Angeles, Phillips posted outstanding numbers, with a 2.22 ERA and 45 saves in 201 appearances.
However, injuries derailed his most recent campaign. Phillips began the 2025 season on the injured list due to a right rotator cuff strain and appeared in only seven games before his year came to an abrupt halt. In June, he underwent Tommy John surgery, effectively ending his season and raising questions about his ability to return to form. Despite the setback, Phillips has already begun a throwing program and is expected to make his way back at some point in 2026, likely in the latter half of the year, barring setbacks.
Financial considerations likely played a role in the non-tender decision. Phillips earned $6.1 million in 2025 and was entering his final year of arbitration. With his recovery timeline uncertain and the Dodgers carrying several other financial commitments, the front office opted for roster flexibility as it evaluates offseason pitching targets.
Still, the move does not necessarily close the door on Phillips’ future with Los Angeles. The Dodgers have previously re-signed non-tendered players on more team-friendly deals, and given Phillips’ track record as one of the most effective relievers in baseball from 2022–24, mutual interest could emerge once he is further along in his rehabilitation. For a team with championship aspirations, bringing back a familiar and proven bullpen weapon at a reduced rate could make sense.
Addressing relief pitching remains a clear priority for the Dodgers this winter. The bullpen was one of the few vulnerabilities during their 2025 title defense, struggling with injuries and inconsistent performances. As they survey the market, the front office will explore both external additions and potential reunions, including the possibility of Phillips returning on a new contract once his recovery progresses.
For now, the non-tender marks the end of an important chapter, closing at least temporarily the book on one of the Dodgers’ most quietly dominant relievers of the past half-decade.