Here’s a bombshell for baseball fans: Evan Phillips, the former Dodgers closer, is now a free agent after being non-tendered in November. But here’s where it gets controversial—should he sign now or wait until midseason? Let’s dive into the details and explore why this decision could shape his career and the 2026 season for several teams.
Phillips, a right-hander recovering from Tommy John surgery, was projected to earn $6.1MM, which would have doubled due to taxes for the Dodgers. With his surgery in early June, there’s no guarantee he’ll pitch this season, making his free agency a high-stakes gamble. On the surface, he’s an intriguing target for teams seeking bullpen help in 2026 and beyond. Pitchers rehabbing from UCL surgeries often sign two-year deals, with the first year dedicated to recovery. However, Phillips prefers a one-year contract, aiming to re-enter the market next offseason. According to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe, Phillips won’t sign until at least January, when he’s cleared to throw, and may even wait until July, when he’s game-ready.
And this is the part most people miss—timing could be everything for Phillips. The Red Sox are among the teams interested, but his one-year preference and pre-injury track record make him a fit for nearly any club. At 31, Phillips has been stellar in his four-plus seasons with the Dodgers, highlighted by a 2022 breakout where he posted a 1.14 ERA, a 33% strikeout rate, and a 6.4% walk rate over 63 innings. Since then, he’s logged 184 2/3 innings with a 2.14 ERA, 29.6% strikeout rate, and 45 saves, all while maintaining a fastball velocity above 96 mph.
Waiting until January or later allows Phillips to showcase his rehab progress, potentially boosting his earning power. Scouts won’t see him at full strength, but they’ll have tangible data to compare with other pitchers at similar rehab stages. Delaying until midseason, however, has its perks. He could rehab independently, assess which teams are postseason contenders, and avoid the slim chance of a qualifying offer (QO), which can hinder a free agent’s market value. While QOs for relievers are rare, top closers like Raisel Iglesias, Josh Hader, and Edwin Díaz have received them in recent years.
But here’s the million-dollar question: Is Phillips willing to risk waiting for a better deal? Last year, David Robertson held out until July, signing a prorated $16MM deal with the Phillies, earning $6MM for just a few months. While Phillips’ situation differs due to his injury, a similar strategy could pay off if he avoids setbacks. However, if a fair offer comes his way soon, he’ll face a tough decision: sign now or bet on a stronger market later?
What do you think? Should Phillips sign early or wait for the perfect opportunity? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over!
