The Los Angeles Dodgers non-tendered right-handed reliever Evan Phillips and right-hander Nick Frasso ahead of the deadline, making both free agents. Phillips, a key bullpen arm in recent seasons, had been limited by injuries in 2025. The move opens spots on the 40-man roster as the team eyes bullpen reinforcements.
The Dodgers made the decision to non-tender Phillips and Frasso before Friday's 2 p.m. PT deadline, allowing both players to enter free agency. Phillips, 31, had been one of the team's most reliable high-leverage relievers over five seasons from 2021 to 2025, compiling a 2.22 ERA with 45 saves across 201 appearances. However, his 2025 season was derailed by injuries; he appeared in just seven games, starting on the injured list with a right rotator cuff strain before undergoing Tommy John surgery in June. Phillips earned $6.1 million that year and was heading into his final arbitration season. He recently began a throwing program and is projected to return during the 2026 season, possibly in the second half.
Frasso, 27, remains without Major League experience. Previously a top pitching prospect in the Dodgers' system, he missed all of 2024 following shoulder surgery and struggled upon his 2025 return, posting a 5.49 ERA in 43 appearances, including seven starts, at Triple-A Oklahoma City. He was later placed on the 60-day injured list for an undisclosed reason after the Minor League season.
With the non-tenders, the Dodgers' 40-man roster now has three open spots. The team's bullpen was a noted weakness during their successful title defense in 2025, prompting expectations of offseason moves to bolster relief pitching. There is potential interest in re-signing Phillips, given his past contributions to the unit.