The Los Angeles Dodgers made headlines on Wednesday with the announcement of a one-year re-signing for reliever Evan Phillips, valued at $6.5 million. In a move to create space on the 40-man roster, catcher Ben Rortvedt was designated for assignment. Phillips, who is represented by Apex Baseball, had initially been non-tendered by the Dodgers in November following Tommy John surgery he underwent last May but is now set to make his comeback on this new contract.
At 31 years old, Phillips joined the Dodgers in 2021 through a waiver claim from the Tampa Bay Rays. His initial performance following the claim was modest, but everything changed during the 2022 season, where he delivered a stellar 1.14 ERA over 63 innings. Phillips proved to be a vital asset, showcasing a remarkable strikeout rate of 33% and impressive control with a walk rate of just 6.4%. He contributed significantly to the Dodgers with 19 holds that season.
By 2023, Phillips transitioned into the closer role and continued to shine, ending the season with a 2.05 ERA, 24 saves, and an impressive strikeout rate of 28.2%, paired with a low walk rate of 5.6%. Over the span of three years from 2022 to 2024, he recorded an outstanding combined ERA of 2.21 with 44 saves and only nine blown saves, becoming a dominant force in late-inning situations.
Unfortunately, Phillips’ promising 2025 season was cut short when he sustained another injury early in the year, requiring Tommy John surgery, which will likely sideline him for approximately 13 to 14 months. Despite this setback, the Dodgers are optimistic about his potential return around the All-Star break. If Phillips can make a successful recovery, he could rejuvenate the Dodgers’ bullpen in the second half of the season—similar to a mid-season trade for a top-tier reliever.
Financially, the deal also comes with implications for the Dodgers, as they remain significant luxury tax payers. With the added 110% tax on Phillips’ salary, the total cost to the Dodgers will be approximately $13.65 million. This hefty price tag underscores the franchise’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster, despite the inherent risks associated with a player recovering from major surgery.
As for Ben Rortvedt, following his DFA, he is now expected to either be claimed off waivers or return to the organization if he clears waivers. Rortvedt’s defensive abilities make him an attractive option for teams looking for depth at catcher. However, his offensive struggles, reflected in a career batting average of .190 in the majors, might deter teams from keeping him on their big league roster.
The Dodgers have a week to decide on Rortvedt’s fate, whether that involves trading him or placing him on waivers. This period poses challenges but also opportunities for both Rortvedt and the Dodgers as they look to reshape their roster for the upcoming season. With a mix of promising recovery and strategic moves, the Dodgers are positioning themselves for significant gains in the near future.