Right-handed reliever Phillips, still recovering from TJ surgery, happily returns to the Dodgers.

Evan Phillips faces a lengthy recovery from Tommy John surgery, yet he finds reassurance in finishing at Dodger Stadium.

This veteran right-hander inked a one-year, $6.5 million contract with the Dodgers shortly before pitchers and catchers reported to spring training. In November last year, the Dodgers chose not to renew his contract to preserve offseason roster flexibility, but they always made it clear they intended to re-sign him.

The Dodgers were not the only team keeping an eye on Phillips; after acquiring him via waivers in 2021, he developed into an effective late-inning bullpen arm.

“It feels great to be valued like this, to be seen as someone who can make an impact. Of course, I want to contribute in that way,” Phillips said in an interview today. “I’m very confident in my new elbow and believe I can return to that level.”

Phillips appeared in only seven games in 2025, starting the season on the injured list with a right shoulder rotator cuff strain, an issue that had troubled him since the last postseason run. The June Tommy John surgery ended his season early, depriving the Dodgers of one of their most reliable late-inning relievers. Over five seasons with the Dodgers, he posted a 2.22 ERA and recorded 45 saves.

Throughout the entire postseason, Phillips remained with the Dodgers. His teammates appreciated having him around, and he did his best to support them, finding ways to contribute off the mound. Shortly after the Dodgers successfully defended their title, he began throwing again in early November, reaching an important milestone. That same month, he was non-tendered and entered free agency, which was not entirely unexpected.

While on the free-agent market, Phillips continued his rehab work. His progress is on track, and as of Wednesday, he began bullpen sessions, first throwing from a mound to a stationary catcher, aiming to reach full bullpen throwing by some time in March.

Several more milestones remain before a full return. Phillips might be ready by July or August, but he has not set a strict comeback timetable. The Dodgers are not rushing him either; their goal is to have everyone healthy for the playoffs.

“He feels great, his pitching looks excellent, and his physical condition is very good,” said general manager Brandon Gomes. “We’re just being cautious and, in some ways, viewing him as a trade deadline reinforcement.”

For Phillips, being welcomed back by the Dodgers is a joyful yet somewhat strange experience. Although he was a free agent for two months, he felt like he never really left.

“The handshakes and hugs feel a bit odd,” Phillips said, “but for me, it’s just another spring training.”