Dodgers Re-Sign Rehabbing Reliever Evan Phillips for 2026

This article breaks down the Dodgers’ latest bullpen moves. It focuses on the re-signing of Evan Phillips, the addition of Edwin Díaz, and some roster decisions that could shape Los Angeles’ 2026 season as they chase another title.

Phillips Re-Signs on a One-Year Deal

The Dodgers handed Evan Phillips a one-year, $6.5 million contract after they non-tendered him in November. That move shows they still value his late-inning expertise, even as he recovers from major surgery.

Phillips, 31, had Tommy John surgery in June 2025. He probably won’t be ready until the second half of 2026.

At the start of the off-season, his rehab looked on track. He’d already begun a throwing program, so the Dodgers felt pretty confident he could return and help in 2026.

From 2021–2025 with the Dodgers, Phillips put up a 2.22 ERA and notched 45 saves in 201 appearances. His 2025 season got derailed by a right rotator cuff strain and elbow inflammation, which led to surgery and just seven games pitched.

The club made it clear they wanted him back, even before the non-tender. That says a lot about how much they trust his stuff when he’s healthy.

The Dodgers see Phillips as an in-season reinforcement for 2026. They’re hoping he can bolster the bullpen, especially if they’re making a playoff push later that year.

Edwin Díaz Addition and Bullpen Depth

Along with bringing Phillips back, the Dodgers boosted their bullpen by signing closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million deal. Díaz gives Los Angeles a real weapon in the late innings and someone who can handle the pressure when things get tight.

The team’s also looking for Tanner Scott to bounce back in his second season with them. He could be a big piece for those late-inning spots.

With Phillips expected to join midseason, the Dodgers are building a bullpen that could turn into a nightmare for opponents. Díaz should anchor things late, while Scott and Phillips — assuming health — add flexibility and some extra punch to the relief corps.

This group seems built to maximize strikeouts and high-leverage moments. That’s kind of become the Dodgers’ bullpen identity lately, hasn’t it?

Roster Moves: Ben Rortvedt and 40-Man Considerations

To clear a 40-man roster spot for Phillips, Los Angeles designated catcher Ben Rortvedt for assignment.

Rortvedt, 28, had landed with the Dodgers after they claimed him off waivers from the Reds. He actually served as the Dodgers’ primary catcher in September when injuries sidelined Will Smith and Dalton Rushing.

With no minor-league options left, Rortvedt probably wasn’t sticking on the 40-man roster. Still, if he clears waivers, the club might keep him around in some capacity.

The Dodgers are clearly trying to balance their short-term needs with bigger-picture planning. By keeping Phillips, adding Díaz, and juggling the 40-man roster and catching depth, they’re showing they want to compete right now—but they’re also thinking ahead to 2026 and beyond.

• Phillips is still a trusted late-inning option when he’s healthy, and he’s got a pretty solid track record in Los Angeles.
• The Díaz signing brings in a commanding closer who could anchor the bullpen and, honestly, boost their chances at a title run.
• Rortvedt’s designation frees up a roster spot, but if he clears waivers, maybe there’s still a place for him in the organization.

 
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