Dodgers Activate Evan Phillips From IL, Designate Struggling Reliever for Assignment
The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially activated right-handed pitcher Evan Phillips off the injured list, and he’s available to pitch on Friday night in the team’s series opener against the Colorado Rockies.
Phillips has been out since the beginning of May after he suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain. The 29-year-old missed four weeks, but is finally back in a bullpen that has missed his consistency.
To make room on the active roster, right-handed pitcher Elieser Hernández was designated for assignment. Hernández had an 8.38 ERA in five appearances with L.A.
Phillips was off to another dominant start in 2024, sporting a 0.66 ERA in 13.2 innings of work. The 29-year-old had eight saves, 17 strikeouts and just four walks, and was on pace to potentially earn an All-Star nod for the first time in his career.
This injury will definitely set him back in that regard, but assuming he picks up where he left off, the Dodgers bullpen will be very happy to have their closer back.
Without Phillips, the Dodgers shuffled through a revolving door of relievers, and have struggled to find consistency.
Phillips is just one of the many relievers that’s been sidelined for L.A. While they’re happy to have him back, they remain far from full strength without the likes of Brusdar Graterol, Joe Kelly, Ryan Brasier, and Kyle Hurt.
Still, this is a step in the right direction for Los Angeles.
Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
