Dodgers Cut Contract… But Reopen
On November 21, 2025, the Dodgers announced that they would not “tender” Evan Phillips’ contract — meaning they would waive their right to automatically renew his contract through arbitration, making him a free agent.
The decision came after Phillips had a tough 2025 season due to injury, throwing just seven pitches before undergoing Tommy John surgery in June.
According to team officials, Phillips’ projected salary for 2026 (through arbitration) was more than $6 million — a figure the Dodgers felt was not worth the risk while the pitcher was still recovering.
However, shortly after that decision, Andrew Friedman — Dodgers president of baseball operations — revealed that the team was still in contact with Phillips and did not rule out re-signing him if he recovered well.
“Evan has been a big part of our success,” Friedman said, “and we’ll continue to talk, and we’ll wait for him to pitch again.”
Dodgers’ reasoning: Big risk — but hard-to-find upside
Non-tendering Phillips is a somewhat “safe” move: when a pitcher has just gone through Tommy John, his recovery and durability for the entire next season are always unknown. Spending more than $6 million to pay a player who may not return in time or be less than 100 percent is clearly a gamble.
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However, considering Phillips’ history from 2022–2024 — when he was one of the Dodgers’ most important pitchers, with a 2.22 ERA in 201 appearances, 45 saves, and a key role in the playoffs — it’s clear his value can’t be dismissed.
For the Dodgers, “re-tapping” Phillips — if he returns healthy — could help them rebuild their bullpen without spending too much on another closer, while also retaining experience and stability in the lineup.
What the future holds — and what fans should expect
Currently, Evans Phillips is recovering from surgery, with plans to pitch again in November.
If his rehabbing goes well, the possibility of him re-signing with the Dodgers — possibly on a cheaper, health-friendly contract — is very real. The team could use him as a “backup arm”: safe, cost-effective, and versatile.
Conversely, if Phillips fails to fully recover, or fails to reach his pre-injury form — the Dodgers will have to find other ways to bolster their bullpen. This could open up opportunities for young pitchers or other free-market deals.
Conclusion: A Wise Decision — or a Calculated Gamble?
The non-tendering and then keeping the door open for Evan Phillips shows that the Dodgers are walking a fine line between wanting to cut financial risk — and not wanting to completely jettison one of their best pitchers. It’s a strategic choice: if Phillips recovers, they keep their bullpen identity; if not, they’re ready to rebuild.
For fans, the big question is — is love and the past enough to trade for the future? The answer will become clear as the 2026 season approaches and Phillips’ history continues to be rewritten.
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