The Los Angeles Dodgers have quite a collection of talented pitchers shelved on the injured list, but one of last season’s most effective relievers has a concerning update in his recovery.

Last season, Evan Phillips had 63 strikeouts to just 17 walks over 54.2 innings pitched and led the Dodgers in saves with 18, stepping up as the semi-closer. After allowing just three hits in 6.2 October innings, Phillips helped the Dodgers win the National League pennant, but was shut down for the Fall Classic due to a tear in his rotator cuff.

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Phillips recovered during the offseason and rejoined the team toward the end of April. After making seven appearances, elbow inflammation was the reason for Phillips to head back to the injured list on May 7.

Manager Dave Roberts spoke on his reliever’s injury and the lack of a timeline moving forward.

“It’s starting to get a little concerning,” Roberts said. “I don’t know how long we can give it until he can attempt to start playing catch again. I’m getting a little kind of concerned, but hoping for the best.”

Phillips was originally placed on the injured list for forearm discomfort in early May, but an MRI later revealed that the root of the problem was the inflammation in his elbow. No structural damage was found.

Once Phillips is cleared to resume playing catch, the picture will start to get clearer for the reliever, and a plan to progress back to the mound can be initiated.

Phillips is one of 14 Dodgers pitchers on the IL, and a key part of a bullpen that feels his absence. In his handful of games in 2025, Phillips had yet to allow a run, throwing six strikeouts to two walks in 5.2 innings.

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Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

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