Dodgers Get Bullpen Relief as Veteran Arm Returns From IL

Dodgers Get Bullpen Relief as VeteranThe Los Angeles Dodgers activated right-handed relief pitcher Evan Phillips from the injured list ahead of Monday’s game.

In a corresponding move, the Dodgers are optioning right-handed reliever Paul Gervase.

“We’ve all been waiting and took our time,” manager Dave Roberts said pregame, as reported by Dodgers Nation’s Noel Sanchez. “Looking forward to getting him back, I know he’s thrilled.”

The Dodgers non-tendered Phillips in the offseason, though he returned on a one-year, $6.5 million deal just before the beginning of spring training. The right-hander underwent Tommy John surgery last year, and hasn’t pitched in MLB since.

Prior to his injury last season, Phillips made seven appearances for the Dodgers and held his opponents scoreless through 5.2 innings.

The Dodgers originally acquired Phillips in 2021, claiming him off waivers from the Tampa Bay Rays. He immediately transformed into a high-leverage arm with the Dodgers despite having a fairly lackluster career prior to his move to Los Angeles, posting a 3.48 ERA through his first seven appearances with the team.

The following year, Phillips had a 1.14 ERA through 64 appearances for a 353 ERA+. He had a similarly fantastic season in 2023, where he stepped up into the closer role for the Dodgers. He converted a career-high 24 saves that season.

As a Dodger, Phillips has a 2.22 ERA through 201 appearances, and has struck out 221 batters in 195 innings. Phillips had a successful rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City, posting a 1.80 ERA through 10 innings pitched across 12 outings.

The Dodgers acquired Gervase in the deadline deal which brought Ben Rortvedt to LA, and he has appeared for the team five times since arriving.

Four of those appearances came this season, including two against the San Diego Padres this weekend. Gervase has only allowed two runs this year through 7.2 innings pitched, and has eight strikeouts as well.

The right-hander has bounced between Triple-A and the majors all season, coming up on three different occasions to meet the Dodgers’ needs. It makes sense he’s the man to make the trip, as he has been solid in Triple-A this season. He has a 3.60 ERA through 19 appearances with Triple-A Oklahoma City, and has struck out 35 batters through just 25 innings pitched.

Walks have been a concern for the right-hander, but if he can get his control down, he could be a valuable asset to the Dodgers’ bullpen in the future.

Are you excited to see Evan Phillips back with the Dodgers?