The Detroit Tigers are hunting for veteran pitching help this offseason, and they might’ve found an intriguing option who just hit the market.
Evan Phillips, the 31-year-old reliever who’s been a key piece of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ bullpen since 2021, was recently non-tendered and is now available as a free agent.
According to Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press, Phillips is one of five newly available free agents who could make sense for the Tigers.
There’s a catch, though.
Phillips underwent Tommy John surgery in early June to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. He’ll miss most of the 2026 season while recovering from the procedure.
But here’s what makes this interesting – Detroit’s looking at a proven commodity who could be available at a discount due to the injury timing.
Before going under the knife, Phillips logged 5⅔ scoreless innings with two walks and six strikeouts across seven relief appearances this past season. That’s a small sample, but it’s consistent with what he’s been doing for years.
From 2021-24, Phillips appeared in 194 games for the Dodgers, establishing himself as one of their most reliable relievers. His numbers tell the story: a 2.28 ERA with a 6.7% walk rate and 29% strikeout rate across 189⅓ innings during those four seasons.
What makes Phillips particularly appealing for Detroit is his stuff. When healthy, his sweeper-fastball combination generates whiffs at an elite rate – something the Tigers desperately need in their bullpen.
The geography might work in Detroit’s favor too. Phillips grew up in Salisbury, Maryland, which puts him much closer to home than Los Angeles.
Reports suggest the Dodgers could be interested in bringing Phillips back, but if the Tigers are willing to offer better money or opportunity, they might have a shot at landing him.
It’s the kind of calculated risk that could pay off handsomely. Sign Phillips now while he’s recovering, let him rehab through 2025, and have a proven setup man ready for 2026 and beyond.
For a Tigers organization that’s been methodical about building their bullpen depth, Phillips represents exactly the type of veteran presence they’ve been seeking.
