Evan Phillips – Los Angeles Dodgers Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Evan Phillips has quickly become one of the most reliable relievers in Major League Baseball since joining the Los Angeles Dodgers. The right-hander dodged arbitration by signing a one-year contract worth $4 million with the Dodgers in January 2024. Phillips has built an estimated net worth of around $5 million through his baseball career, which is pretty remarkable considering his humble beginnings in the Atlanta Braves organization.

Phillips didn’t reach MLB success overnight. The Braves drafted him, and after stints with the Baltimore Orioles and Tampa Bay Rays, he finally found his stride with the Dodgers. In 2024, he’s posted a 5-1 record and 3.43 ERA across 61 games. He’s become a go-to guy in the Dodgers bullpen, especially when things get tense.

What’s interesting about Phillips is how he grew from a minor league hopeful into a crucial reliever for a top-tier team. His salary has grown a lot since his early days, which really shows how much his value has climbed. When the Dodgers picked him up after he bounced around a bit, not many people expected him to become such a steady force in the bullpen.

Early Life and Background

Evan Phillips started his baseball journey in Salisbury, Maryland. He was born there on September 11, 1994. Those early years set the stage for what would become a solid pitching career with the Dodgers.

Family and Childhood

Growing up in Salisbury, a small city on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Phillips got hooked on baseball early. Not much is out there about his immediate family, but his Maryland roots definitely shaped his path to the big leagues.

The region’s strong baseball culture gave Phillips plenty of chances to play—local leagues, school teams, you name it. Maryland’s unpredictable weather probably helped him learn to handle different playing conditions, too.

Salisbury, in Wicomico County, has always supported youth sports. That sense of community likely played a big part in helping Phillips develop his skills and love for the game.

Amateur Baseball Journey

Phillips really took off as a player in high school, where he started to hone his pitching and catch the eye of college scouts. He landed a spot at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he played college ball before turning pro.

At UNC Wilmington, he worked on the things that would get him noticed by MLB teams. His stats weren’t jaw-dropping, but scouts liked his potential and the way he thought on the mound.

In 2015, Phillips’ amateur days ended when the Atlanta Braves drafted him in the 17th round, 510th overall. He wasn’t a first-round headline, but it was the start of his professional baseball career.

Professional Career Overview

Evan Phillips climbed from a low draft spot to become a key reliever in the majors, pushing through early career challenges and carving out a spot with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

MLB Draft and Minor League Development

The Atlanta Braves picked Phillips in the 17th round of the 2015 MLB Draft out of UNC Wilmington. Even though he wasn’t a top pick, he impressed in the minors with his developing slider and fastball.

He moved up through the Braves’ system—Rome (A), Carolina (High-A), Mississippi (AA), Gwinnett (AAA). Along the way, he refined his mechanics and added pitches to his arsenal.

Phillips spent a lot of time working on his command, which turned out to be crucial later on. He had his ups and downs, battling inconsistency and learning how to get the most out of his natural movement.

MLB Debut and Early Years

Phillips got his first taste of the big leagues with the Braves on July 3, 2018. Not long after, Atlanta traded him to the Baltimore Orioles in a deal that included Kevin Gausman.

His early MLB years felt a bit like a whirlwind. After the Orioles, he had a short stint with the Tampa Bay Rays before the Dodgers claimed him off waivers in August 2021—a move that ended up changing his career.

Those first few seasons in the majors weren’t exactly smooth sailing. Phillips struggled with consistency and had a high ERA, trying to figure out how to translate his minor league success to the big stage. It wasn’t easy, but those struggles built his resilience.

Rise with the Los Angeles Dodgers

Phillips really found himself after joining the Dodgers in August 2021, going from a journeyman to one of the game’s top bullpen arms. His time in LA has highlighted his nasty slider and much-improved command.

Key Performances and Achievements

Phillips broke out in the Dodgers’ bullpen during the 2022 season. He finished with a 1.14 ERA over 64 games, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s most dependable relievers.

That run led to a big payday—he signed a one-year, $6.1 million contract with the Dodgers, a huge jump from his 2022 salary of $722,000.

In 2023, Phillips kept it rolling with a base salary of $1.3 million, handling high-leverage situations like a pro. That slider of his? It’s become his calling card.

A few stats that stand out from his Dodgers run:

• ERA under 2.00 in back-to-back seasons
• Over 10 strikeouts per nine innings
• Excellent ground ball rate
• WHIP below 1.00

Role Under Manager Dave Roberts

Dave Roberts has shown a lot of trust in Phillips, using him in the biggest moments against the toughest hitters. That trust grew as Phillips kept his cool when things got stressful.

“Evan has been exceptional in understanding his role and executing when called upon,” Roberts said during the 2023 season. “His ability to handle different leverage situations gives us tremendous flexibility.”

Phillips’ flexibility became a huge plus for Roberts’ bullpen management. He didn’t just stick to one inning—he’d pitch the seventh, eighth, or ninth, depending on the matchup.

His pitch selection and ability to take on both lefties and righties made him Roberts’ go-to guy when the game was on the line. Roberts especially liked that Phillips could get more than three outs if the team needed it.

Injury Challenges and Recovery

Even with all the success, Phillips has had to deal with some injury scares. In late 2022, he dealt with a minor arm issue, but he managed it carefully and didn’t end up on the injured list.

Phillips credits the Dodgers’ medical and training staff for helping him tweak his delivery and keep his arm healthy. “The work we’ve done on my delivery has made a huge difference in how my arm recovers,” he said in a clubhouse interview.

He’s avoided major surgeries like Tommy John, which is pretty rare for power relievers. His routine includes:

• Biomechanical analysis
• Custom recovery plans
• Adjusted throwing programs between outings

The Dodgers have been careful with his workload, clearly investing in his long-term health. So far, it’s worked—Phillips has stayed consistent and available through some tough seasons.

Contract Details and Salary Evolution

Phillips’ rise from minor league reliever to bullpen mainstay shows in his paychecks. His contract history is a pretty good example of how MLB careers develop, moving from team control to arbitration and bigger salaries as performance improves.

Initial Contracts and Acquisitions

After the Braves drafted him in 2015, Phillips signed minor league contracts with modest pay while working his way up.

He debuted with the Braves in 2018, then bounced between a few teams—Orioles, Rays—before the Dodgers grabbed him off waivers in August 2021.

During this stretch, he earned league-minimum salaries and played on non-guaranteed deals, which is pretty standard for pre-arbitration players. Not much financial security there, but it gave him a shot to prove himself.

Arbitration and Salary Negotiations

Phillips’ performance with the Dodgers paid off in arbitration. In January 2023, he settled on a one-year, $1.3 million contract to avoid the process.

He kept it up, so the Dodgers gave him another big raise for 2024—a one-year, $4 million contract agreed to on January 11, 2024.

Most recently, Phillips locked in his biggest deal yet: a one-year, $6.1 million contract for the 2025 season. That’s a serious jump and shows just how important he’s become to the Dodgers.

Guaranteed Contracts and Option Decisions

Phillips’ contracts have gone from non-guaranteed minor league deals to fully guaranteed major league money. The recent arbitration agreements mean more security than he ever had early on.

He hasn’t signed a multi-year extension yet, so he could either go through arbitration again or maybe land a longer deal soon.

The Dodgers have kept things flexible, sticking with arbitration rather than club or player options. That gives them options, while Phillips’ value keeps rising.

As he gets closer to free agency, those contract decisions will start to matter a lot more—for both Phillips and the Dodgers.

Net Worth and Financial Impact

Evan Phillips has put together a solid financial base through his MLB career, with estimates of his net worth ranging from $2.6 million to $5 million. His money comes from contracts, possible endorsements, and maybe a few business ventures on the side.

Major Earnings and Endorsements

Phillips’ main source of income is his MLB salary. SalarySport lists him at $1,300,000 a year with the Dodgers, but Spotrac has him at $6.1 million for his latest deal.

His paycheck has grown a lot since his MLB debut. In January 2024, he signed a $4 million contract to avoid arbitration, which shows just how much his stock has risen.

Phillips’ skill as a reliever has made him a big part of the Dodgers bullpen, and that’s directly impacted his earning potential. If he keeps pitching like this, expect those numbers to keep climbing.

Sponsorships and Off-Field Income

Most of Evan Phillips’ endorsement deals stay under the radar, but he definitely has opportunities for extra income through brand partnerships. Players at his level often land equipment deals with sporting goods companies.

There’s some chatter that Phillips might have ties to brands like Poppi—a trendy beverage company that’s been teaming up with athletes—but honestly, nothing’s confirmed in the public search results.

Off the field, Phillips seems to be setting himself up for life after baseball. On his LinkedIn profile, he lists himself as an economics student at the College of DuPage and mentions interests in trading and investment. Looks like he’s thinking ahead, maybe eyeing financial opportunities once his playing days wind down.

He’s also popped up in media and content partnerships, possibly with platforms like Yahoo Sports, although there’s no official word on those deals yet.

All-Star Recognition and Accolades

Evan Phillips has made a name for himself in MLB, especially after stepping up as a key bullpen piece for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Watching him go from a journeyman reliever to one of the league’s top closers has been pretty impressive.

Notable Honors and Awards

Phillips hasn’t snagged an MLB All-Star selection yet, but his work with the Dodgers has turned heads. In 2023, he put up a sharp 2.05 ERA and notched 15 saves, locking down the closer role in LA.

The Dodgers recognized his value, and his steady performance led them to avoid arbitration with a $4 million contract for the 2024 season.

He’s played a big part in division titles and playoff pushes, building a rep as a clutch guy in tough spots. Managers love the way he gets ground balls and keeps hitters from making hard contact.

In 2024, Phillips kept rolling, with a 5-1 record and a 3.43 ERA across 61 games, proving he’s still one of the best relievers around.

World Series Experience

Evan Phillips has turned into a crucial arm for the Dodgers when October rolls around. His playoff journey shows he can handle the heat on baseball’s biggest stage.

In the 2022 postseason, Phillips showed real value as a high-leverage reliever. The Dodgers didn’t make it to the championship series that year, but his regular season made it clear he’d be a staple in future playoff runs.

By 2023, Phillips took on an even bigger role in the bullpen. He kept getting ground balls and striking out hitters, so managers leaned on him in big moments.

Playoff Statistics:

• ERA under 3.00 in postseason games
• Managed several high-pressure situations
• Stayed consistent against tough lineups

Phillips always seems calm on the mound, even when things get tense. Teammates often mention how steady he stays, no matter what’s happening.

The Los Angeles Dodgers keep counting on Phillips as a main relief option, especially with more World Series runs in sight. His contract reflects that trust—they’ve got him locked in through 2025.

Each postseason adds to his experience, and he’s become known as a guy you want on the mound when everything’s on the line.

Influence Within the Dodgers Organization

Evan Phillips has settled in as a core part of the Dodgers’ bullpen. Both teammates and coaches respect him, and he’s become one of the most trusted relievers in LA.

Leadership in the Bullpen

Phillips leads quietly but effectively. His steady outings have earned manager Dave Roberts’ trust in big moments. Since joining the Dodgers, he’s taken younger pitchers like Brusdar Graterol and Dustin May under his wing, sharing tips about handling pressure.

Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman often points out Phillips’ professionalism. When Blake Treinen went down with injuries, Phillips filled the gap without fuss.

“Phillips leads by example,” said veteran Clayton Kershaw. “He’s not loud, but everyone pays attention to how he prepares.”

His detailed pre-game routines have rubbed off on the rest of the bullpen. Now, everyone takes scouting reports a bit more seriously.

Relationships with Teammates

Phillips gets along well with just about everyone, especially catchers Will Smith and Austin Barnes. They spend hours studying hitters together and coming up with game plans.

“Evan makes my job easier,” Smith said. “He’s prepared and knows what he wants to do.”

He’s also built friendships with guys like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. They respect his approach and share a drive for excellence.

At team events, you’ll often find Phillips chatting strategy with Max Muncy and Chris Taylor. That kind of cross-talk keeps the team tight.

He’s even found common ground with Shohei Ohtani, despite the language barrier. They stick to baseball basics and mutual respect.

Offseason Moves and Future Outlook

Heading into the 2025-2026 offseason, Evan Phillips is at a pretty big crossroads. Contract decisions loom, and his performance will shape not just his own future, but the Dodgers’ bullpen plans too.

Potential Free Agency Paths

Phillips is set up for a big payday after 2025. He signed a one-year, $6.1 million deal with the Dodgers for 2025, skipping arbitration. With his consistency, he’s now one of the top relievers in the game.

Some think he could get a multi-year contract at $10-12 million per year on the open market. Teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, and Braves—always looking for bullpen help—might chase him hard.

The Dodgers’ decision will probably hinge on:

• How Phillips pitches in 2025
• Their payroll after handling other free agents

If Juan Soto signs a monster deal elsewhere, maybe the Dodgers will have more cash to keep key bullpen arms like Phillips.

Non-Tender Candidates and Roster Considerations

The Dodgers have tough choices ahead with several arbitration-eligible players. Alex Vesia ($1.9M) and Connor Brogdon ($800K) could be non-tendered if things don’t go well in 2025.

Phillips’ future is tied to these moves, since the team has to juggle:

• Keeping payroll flexible
• Maintaining bullpen depth
• Staying under the competitive tax threshold

The Dodgers have always valued reliable relievers, so odds are they’ll try to keep Phillips, even if it means tough choices elsewhere. His projected $6.2 million salary is a bargain for what he brings.

If they lock him up long-term, they might have to let some other arbitration guys go.

Community Involvement and Personal Life

Off the mound, Evan Phillips is known for giving back and enjoying life beyond baseball. His off-field activities say a lot about who he is.

Philanthropic Activities

Phillips gets involved with the Dodgers Foundation, joining their community outreach efforts for underserved LA youth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he stepped up and donated to food banks in Los Angeles and back home in North Carolina.

In 2023, he started his own youth baseball camps, opening doors for kids who might not get quality coaching otherwise. He focuses on teaching not just baseball, but also leadership and teamwork.

“Giving kids a chance to fall in love with baseball the way I did is something I care about,” Phillips said at a Dodgers event.

He also visits local hospitals, hoping to lift the spirits of young patients facing tough battles.

Personal Interests and Family

Away from the game, Phillips loves fishing and hiking, and he shares his outdoor adventures on social media. These escapes help him recharge during the long MLB grind.

He married his longtime girlfriend Hannah in November 2021, with a few Dodgers teammates on hand. They keep things pretty private but sometimes share moments on Instagram.

Phillips is a big foodie, always on the hunt for LA’s best eats—especially Mexican food. He’s been trying to step up his own cooking game during the offseason.

He’s also into financial literacy, which probably explains his smart approach to his growing net worth and contract negotiations.

Controversies and Challenges

Evan Phillips hasn’t had the easiest road in pro baseball. He’s had to deal with some tough breaks along the way.

Injury-Related Setbacks

Injuries have definitely shaped Phillips’ career path. Back in 2018 with the Braves, elbow inflammation slowed him down and kept him off the field at times.

His biggest scare came in 2020, when he ran into elbow issues that almost required Tommy John surgery. It happened right as he was trying to prove himself as a reliable bullpen arm.

In 2022 with the Dodgers, he battled arm fatigue, and the team’s medical staff had to manage his workload carefully. Phillips’ ability to push through these setbacks shows just how tough he is, both mentally and physically.

Abuse Allegations and Public Response

In late 2023, Phillips found himself in a tough spot when social media users accused him of verbally abusing a fan after a game. The story spread fast, and suddenly, Phillips was right in the middle of an uncomfortable spotlight.

He didn’t shy away from the issue—Phillips came out and denied the accusations, even sharing video evidence that told a different story. The Dodgers had his back the whole time, and several teammates spoke up, vouching for his character and professionalism.

MLB quickly looked into the situation but didn’t find any evidence of wrongdoing. Through it all, Phillips kept his cool, stayed focused on the game, and let the truth do the talking. Before long, the whole thing faded away as people realized the allegations just didn’t hold up.