The Los Angeles Dodgers have activated reliever Evan Phillips from the 60-day injured list, marking the end of a 13-month rehabilitation period following reconstructive elbow surgery. Phillips underwent the procedure last year and returned to the active roster on Monday.
Phillips, 31, has been a key contributor for the Dodgers since being claimed off waivers in the middle of the 2021 season. He led the team in saves in both 2023 and 2024, and has posted a 2.22 earned-run average in 201 games for the club. His return comes as the Dodgers prepare for the Aug. 3 trade deadline, with his performance potentially mitigating the need for further acquisitions for the bullpen.
"More nervous than I expected," Phillips said of his return. "I’m excited to get back out there. I was here for a live BP a month and a half ago and took a moment then to appreciate being back at Dodger Stadium, but it’s gonna be different tonight, getting back out there in a competitive atmosphere."
The final stage of Phillips' recovery involved a month-long stint with the Dodgers’ triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City. During his time there, he pitched 12 games, recording a 1.80 ERA in 10 innings. In late June, Phillips pitched on consecutive days and completed a four-game stretch without allowing any runs or walks. "Feel like probably the last past two weeks or so really took a good turn on my rehab," he stated. "Started bouncing back even better, pitching more like myself, feeling more like myself."
To make room on the active roster for Phillips, Paul Gervase was optioned to triple-A. Phillips' spot on the 40-man roster was previously held by left-hander Jake Eder. In a separate roster move, the Dodgers added right-hander Carlos Duran to the 40-man roster and designated catcher Chuckie Johnson for assignment. Johnson was optioned to triple-A after batting 2 for 23 in eight major-league games with the Dodgers.