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Dodgers GM Gives Kiké Hernandez, Evan Phillips Injury Updates

Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Evan Phillips (59) pitches during the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium.

Los Angeles Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes provided injury updates on Kiké Hernandez and Evan Phillips, who re-signed with the Dodgers last week, on Sunday.

Hernandez signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with L.A., and Phillips came back on a one-year, $6.5 million deal after the Dodgers non-tendered him earlier in the offseason. Hernandez underwent surgery to repair his elbow at the end of the season, and Phillips underwent Tommy John surgery in the middle of 2025.

“Kike’s progressing well, obviously he’s in a place where he should be starting swinging here pretty soon,” Gomes said. “We’re going to be very mindful of how we progress into this, making sure that when he comes back he’s not only healthy, but healthy and ready to perform. …He’s in a good place and really where he should be as far as the rehab schedule.

“…[Phillips] is feeling really good, throwing looks great, body looks great. I think it’s just being mindful and viewing him as almost a trade deadline acquisition.”

Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Evan Phillips (59) pitches during the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium.
Jun 1, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Evan Phillips (59) pitches during the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-USA TODAY Sports

What Role Will Kiké Hernandez Play in 2026?

Hernandez, much like the last few years, will likely be coming off the bench for the Dodgers in 2026.

The utility man is a key player for the Dodgers, and can play across the diamond if they need him to. His versatility — as well as his energy — are invaluable to the Dodgers, and they’ll hope he can continue to produce for them on both offense and defense.

He played 92 games last season, featuring at six positions, and slashed .203/.255/.366 with 10 home runs and 35 RBIs.

How Does Evan Phillips Fit in the Bullpen?

Phillips spent the majority of the 2025 season on the sidelines with injury, but when he’s healthy, he’s one of the Dodgers’ most dominant relief arms.

The right-hander threw in seven games last season, and didn’t give up a run through 5.2 innings pitched. He’s made 201 appearances with the Dodgers since arriving in 2021, and has a 2.22 ERA with 221 strikeouts through 195 innings pitched.

He is one of the Dodgers’ best right-handed relievers, and will play a huge role in stabilizing the bullpen when he makes his return to the team.

Which player do you think will be more impactful next season?

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