The Dodgers have extended a one-year contract with their recovering bullpen pitcher Phillips.

Today, the Los Angeles Dodgers inked a one-year, $6.5 million contract with relief right-hander Evan Phillips. Catcher Ben Rortvedt, recently claimed off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds, was designated for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster.

Phillips, now 31, was non-tendered by the Dodgers last November. Over the past few years, he has been one of the team’s most trusted key bullpen arms, but he underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2025 and is expected to return in the latter half of 2026. At the start of the offseason, Phillips’ rehab was progressing as planned, and he had begun a throwing program.

Since deciding not to tender him a contract, the Dodgers have clearly expressed interest in bringing Phillips back. Between 2021 and 2025, he appeared in 201 games for the Dodgers with a 2.22 ERA and 45 saves; however, last season he only pitched in seven games due to a right shoulder rotator cuff strain and right elbow inflammation requiring surgery.

Phillips’ career transformed completely after joining the Dodgers via waiver claim during the 2021 season. Originally drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 17th round of the 2015 draft from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, he made his major league debut six years later and established himself with the Dodgers three years ago.

This winter, the Dodgers significantly boosted their bullpen by signing closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million contract. The team also hopes Tanner Scott will rebound in his second season with the Dodgers. With Phillips expected to return mid-season, the bullpen is anticipated to strengthen as the schedule progresses, aiding the team’s pursuit of a third consecutive championship.

Twenty-eight-year-old Rortvedt returned to the Dodgers last Saturday after being claimed from the Reds. He arrived at the Dodgers via a three-team trade with the Rays at the 2025 trade deadline and initially remained in Triple-A until stepping in as the primary catcher in September when Will Smith and Dalton Rushing both suffered injuries. Without options for minor league assignment, Rortvedt was unlikely to stay on the 40-man roster long-term; however, if he clears waivers unclaimed, the Dodgers may keep him within the organization for catching depth.