The Los Angeles Dodgers continue to show interest in re-signing pitcher Evan Phillips, who they non-tendered last November due to his elevated arbitration salary while recovering from injury. Phillips is currently undergoing rehabilitation following Tommy John surgery performed in mid-2025, with both the player and the Dodgers reportedly aiming to agree on a contract by mid-season, according to MLB insider Fabian Ardaya.
Phillips is expected to return to action around the All-Star break or the trade deadline, as his recovery timeline from Tommy John surgery typically spans about one year. Before his surgery on May 30 of the previous season, Phillips had delivered six strikeouts and recorded one save over 5.2 scoreless innings. His track record captures solid performances since joining the Dodgers in 2021, highlighted by 61 appearances two seasons ago with a 5-1 record and a 3.43 ERA, along with 63 strikeouts and 18 saves, underscoring his value to the bullpen.
Baltimore Orioles Intensify Pursuit of Starting Pitcher Zac Gallen
The market for starting pitchers is rapidly diminishing, with notable signings such as Ranger Suarez securing a five-year, $130 million contract with the Boston Red Sox, and Framber Valdez agreeing to a three-year, $115 million deal with the Detroit Tigers. Against this backdrop, the Baltimore Orioles have emerged as key contenders in the race to acquire right-hander Zac Gallen, formerly of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Orioles are actively linked to Gallen alongside other interested clubs like the San Diego Padres, Chicago Cubs, and the Diamondbacks themselves. Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias highlighted the team’s approach by stating they are
“staying plugged in with both the trade and free-agent markets,”
which indicates the organization is thoroughly evaluating opportunities to strengthen their roster, including the potential addition of Gallen, while remaining content with their current rotation.
One obstacle in landing Gallen is the draft pick compensation required, as the pitcher declined a qualifying offer from Arizona. Given Gallen’s uneven performance in 2025, teams appear cautious about committing to a long-term contract, which lends weight to the possibility that Gallen could re-sign with the Diamondbacks on a shorter deal, allowing Arizona to retain their draft pick.
Implications and Future Outlook for Orioles and Dodgers
The developments surrounding Evan Phillips and Zac Gallen signify strategic moves by the Dodgers and Orioles as they navigate offseason priorities in pitching. For the Dodgers, bringing Phillips back could revitalize their bullpen midseason once he recovers, bolstering their postseason aspirations. Meanwhile, the Orioles’ pursuit of Gallen reflects their desire to reinforce their starting rotation amid an increasingly scarce market for quality pitchers.
The Orioles face a challenging decision with Gallen due to draft pick costs and the pitcher’s recent performance, but acquiring him could be pivotal in maintaining their competitive edge. As other teams solidify their rosters, Baltimore’s continued presence in trade and free-agent negotiations will be crucial. Both franchises are positioning themselves thoughtfully, weighing risks and benefits in pursuit of improved pitching depth as the 2026 MLB season approaches.
The Dodgers remain interested in bringing back Evan Phillips, per @FabianArdaya
“Phillips’ return remains up in the air, though there’s been mutual interest throughout the offseason”
He would be set to return as soon as mid-season. pic.twitter.com/d7ZDaZ6o5m
— SleeperDodgers (@SleeperDodgers) February 10, 2026
The Baltimore Orioles are among the teams linked to free-agent RHP Zac Gallen, along with the Padres, Cubs and Diamondbacks are also in the mix, per @BNightengale
After passing on Suárez and Valdez, Gallen would be the next option for the Orioles pic.twitter.com/IgFfuUCaIK
— 𝙆am Brice (@kambrice1tv) February 10, 2026
