Evan Phillips Returns to Dodgers After Elbow Surgery

Evan Phillips has made his comeback, returning from the 60-day disabled list on Monday. If he pitches as effectively as he did before his reconstructive elbow surgery last year, the Dodgers might find themselves comfortable enough to avoid any major trades as the August 3 deadline approaches.

“I was more nervous than I expected,” Phillips shared, reflecting on his return.

At 31, Phillips had been the Dodgers’ leading save pitcher in both 2023 and 2024. After claiming waivers mid-2021, he has pitched in 201 games for the team, maintaining a solid 2.22 ERA.

His return took place during the opening game of a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies, marking the conclusion of a challenging 13-month recovery journey. This journey began when Dr. Neil El-Atrace repaired his ulnar collateral ligament.

“I’m excited to be back on the field,” Phillips said. “I was here a month and a half ago for live BP, and I was grateful to be at Dodger Stadium then, but tonight feels different. It’s about being back in a competitive atmosphere,” he added, expressing his enthusiasm.

The last phase of Phillips’ rehabilitation involved a month spent at Triple-A. During this time, he pitched in 12 games for the Oklahoma City affiliate, boasting a 1.80 ERA over 10 innings.

He demonstrated his readiness by pitching in consecutive games against Oklahoma City on June 24 and 25, leading to a streak of four games without allowing a run or a walk.

“I feel like my rehab has really picked up in the last couple of weeks,” he noted. “I’m starting to pitch more like myself, and it feels great.”

To make space for Phillips on the active roster, Paul Gervase was optioned out. Also, Phillips was added to the 40-man roster, with left-hander Jake Eder being removed.

In a related move, the Dodgers brought right-hander Carlos Duran onto the 40-man roster while designating catcher Chucky Johnson for assignment. Johnson had a tough stint, hitting just 2-for-23 in eight major league games with the Dodgers before being optioned to Triple-A.