Entering the 2023 season a set Los Angeles Dodgers closer was not decided on, with the team instead opting to use a committee approach with Evan Phillips among multiple options for the ninth inning.
It’s the first time in recent memory the Dodgers did not have a locked-in closer role. Last year, Craig Kimbrel was given the ninth until losing his job, and prior to him, it belonged to Kenley Jansen.
Phillips figured to be the favorite for saves as the best arm in the bullpen, but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also preferred to keep him in the fireman role. However, Roberts recently acknowledged he views Phillips as the team’s de facto closer.
That still hasn’t amounted to only Phillips pitching the ninth inning, as Brusdar Graterol received recent opportunities. But Phillips was called on for the save Saturday night, and he delivered against the San Diego Padres.
Following the win, Phillips explained nothing has changed for him in terms of preparation despite at times being used as Dodgers closer, via SportsNet LA:
“We’ve always done a great job of communicating what’s expected of each of us every night. The easiest way I can prepare for any situation is to do what I’ve always done. So fifth, sixth inning, no matter the score, no matter the game or team, I’m always doing my thing, making sure I’m ready to help my team win.”
How different the ninth inning has often been a point of debate. The traditional view is that it’s a more stressful inning that some pitchers can’t handle, while more modern ideas said it’s no different than any other frame. For Phillips, he doesn’t see it as all the different:
“It’s a little louder. I don’t add anything else. For me, every out is equally valuable. No matter the situation, save situation, whatever inning it might be, whatever team we might be facing, they all matter to me.”
Overall this season, Phillips has thrown 11 innings with a 2.45 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 15 strikeouts.
He has also picked up his fourth save, which leads the club. Other Dodgers pitchers to record a save this season are Graterol (two), Andre Jackson and Shelby Miller (one each).
Phillips finished last season with a 1.14 ERA, 1.94 FIP, 0.76 WHIP, .153 batting average against, 33% strikeout rate and 6.4% walk rate over 63 innings pitched, along with a team-best 19 holds.
Evan Phillips open to Dodgers closer role
When discussing the possibility of becoming the new Dodgers closer during an offseason interview, Phillips made it clear he would happily take on the role but wasn’t worried by how the team may ultimately deploy him out of the bullpen.
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