The Los Angeles Dodgers have re-signed right-handed reliever Evan Phillips to a one-year, $6.5 million contract, bringing back the late-inning specialist who is recovering from Tommy John surgery. Phillips, 31, is expected to return to the mound around July after undergoing the procedure that ended his 2025 season prematurely.

Phillips had been one of the Dodgers' most reliable bullpen arms from 2022-2024, posting a 2.21 ERA and 0.92 WHIP while saving 44 games and striking out 206 batters in 179 innings. His 2025 season was cut short when he first suffered a rotator cuff strain in March, returned for seven scoreless appearances in April, then went back on the injured list May 7 with forearm discomfort. The Dodgers acquired Phillips in August 2021 after he was designated for assignment by the Tampa Bay Rays, following his release from the Baltimore Orioles.

The veteran reliever's return represents a calculated gamble for Los Angeles, as Tommy John recovery typically requires 12-15 months. His proven track record as a high-leverage option makes this a potentially valuable investment if he returns to form by the stretch run.