After signing Phil Maton to a multi-year contract, the Chicago Cubs are still actively exploring options to strengthen their pitching staff. Their bullpen, in particular, remains a key area of need. While Maton is expected to handle high-leverage situations, additional reinforcements are necessary.
In a recent New York Times/The Athletic article, the Cubs were notably encouraged to pursue a recently non-tendered closer from the Los Angeles Dodgers. That pitcher, Evan Phillips, underwent Tommy John surgery in early June, and is expected to spend most of 2026 recovering. That makes a signing now effectively positioning him equal to that of a trade-deadline acquisition.
Chicago Cubs urged to pursue non-tendered closer Evan Phillips
Oct 17, 2024; New York City, New York, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Evan Phillips (59) throws a pitch against the New York Mets in the fifth inning during game four of the NLCS for the 2024 MLB playoffs at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
The Dodgers have non-tendered former closer Evan Phillips, who was projected to earn $6.1 million in 2026. While Los Angeles has shown interest in re-signing him, other teams are likely circling as well, given how lethal his fastball-sweeper combination is when healthy.
Beyond his pitching arsenal, Phillips also brings valuable postseason experience. He’s recorded three of his 45 saves from the 2023–2024 seasons in playoff games. His experience in high-pressure situations could make him an immediate impact option for a playoff team looking to bolster its late-inning bullpen towards the end of next season.
Pushing for the Cubs to pursue Phillips are The Athletic writers Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney. Together they wrote, “Phillips profiles as the type of pitcher the Cubs have successfully identified and incorporated into the bullpen. Among pitchers, Cubs manager Craig Counsell has an excellent reputation for keeping their health at the forefront of his decisions.”
Their assessment holds up, and it also fits Chicago’s current approach, where a short-term commitment is ideal. A one-year deal, possibly with a club option for a second season, seems like a realistic path forward. Time will tell if Phillips and Chicago link up, but they seem like a perfect match.
Chicago Cubs are aiming big on pitching this offseason, per insiders
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