Evan Phillips, a key contributor to the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ bullpen success in recent seasons, was forced to watch from the sidelines as his teammates celebrated their World Series victory over the Yankees last October. Sidelined by a shoulder injury, Phillips was unable to contribute to the team’s postseason run, an experience he describes as both frustrating and emotionally challenging.
Phillips’ shoulder injury has proven to be more serious than initially anticipated.
Recent evaluations have revealed a subscapularis tear, a significant injury affecting the largest muscle in the rotator cuff. This injury is expected to sideline Phillips at the start of the 2025 season, delaying his return to the mound.
Evan Phillips Won’t Be Ready For Los Angeles Dodgers Opening Day
Phillips, who recorded a team-high 18 saves for the Dodgers in 2024, played a crucial role in the team’s postseason success, delivering 6⅔ scoreless innings across five appearances in the NLDS and NLCS. His absence will undoubtedly be felt as the Dodgers navigate the early stages of the new season.
Phillips’ recovery from shoulder surgery is progressing, but he faces a challenging timeline to be ready for the start of the 2025 season.
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While initial tests did not necessitate surgical intervention, Phillips underwent platelet-rich plasma therapy following the team’s return from New York. A subsequent MRI in December revealed ongoing healing, though some damage remains.
This injury has significantly impacted Phillips’ offseason training regimen. He was limited to medicine ball exercises and light plyometric work throughout December, only commencing baseball-specific throwing activities in January. This delayed progression places him behind schedule for the start of spring training and significantly reduces the likelihood of his availability for the Dodgers’ opening series in Tokyo on March 18th and 19th.
Phillips, who finished the 2024 season with a 3.62 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 63 strikeouts in 54.2 innings, will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to the LA Dodgers’ bullpen when he returns to full health. However, the team will need to navigate the early portion of the season without his contributions.