Confirmed: Dodgers Pitcher Evan Phillips To Undergo Tommy John, Miss Rest Of Year

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 01, 2025

4.5

Share

Confirmed: Dodgers Pitcher Evan Phillips to Undergo Tommy John Surgery, Out for the Season

Los Angeles Dodgers fans received devastating news today as the team confirmed that relief pitcher Evan Phillips will undergo Tommy John surgery, effectively ending his 2023 season. The announcement, made this afternoon, throws a significant wrench into the Dodgers' bullpen plans for the crucial stretch run and postseason.

Phillips, a key component of the Dodgers' dominant relief corps, has been experiencing elbow discomfort for several weeks. While the team initially attempted conservative treatment and rest, further evaluation revealed the need for the reconstructive surgery. This procedure, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, addresses a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) – a common injury among pitchers.

The Impact on the Dodgers' Bullpen

The loss of Phillips is a substantial blow to the Dodgers. He's been a reliable and high-performing arm, consistently delivering crucial outs in high-leverage situations. His absence leaves a significant gap in the bullpen's depth and experience. Manager Dave Roberts will now need to rely on other relievers to step up and fill the void. This could mean increased opportunities for younger pitchers or a potential shift in bullpen roles for established veterans. The Dodgers' front office may also explore trade options to bolster their pitching staff before the trade deadline.

What is Tommy John Surgery?

Tommy John surgery is a complex procedure that involves reconstructing the UCL in the throwing elbow. It's named after Major League Baseball pitcher Tommy John, who underwent the surgery in 1974, pioneering its use in professional baseball. The surgery typically involves using a tendon graft from another part of the body to replace the torn ligament. Recovery time is extensive, often requiring 12-18 months before a pitcher can return to full strength. This means Phillips is likely to miss a significant portion of the 2024 season as well.

Recovery Timeline and Potential Return

While the exact recovery timeline will depend on Phillips' individual progress, a typical Tommy John surgery recovery involves several months of rehabilitation. This includes physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and a gradual return to throwing. While fans hope for a speedy recovery, a full return to the mound isn't expected until well into the 2024 season.

The Dodgers' Next Steps

With Phillips sidelined, the Dodgers face a crucial challenge. They need to adapt their bullpen strategy, potentially through internal promotions or external acquisitions. The coming weeks will be critical as the team assesses its options and strives to maintain its competitive edge. The organization will likely provide further updates on Phillips' surgery and rehabilitation progress in the coming weeks.

In conclusion, the news of Evan Phillips' Tommy John surgery is undoubtedly disappointing for Dodgers fans. His absence will be felt acutely, but the team will need to rally and adapt to maintain their championship aspirations. We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available. Keep checking back for the latest updates on Evan Phillips and the Los Angeles Dodgers.