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By Jon Paul Hoornstra
Contributing Sports Writer
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The Atlanta Braves on Thursday announced a $35 million, three-year contract for Evan Phillips, a pitcher who has recorded two saves over the last two seasons, and might not be Atlanta's primary closer in 2027.
Not long ago, such a high price for a middle reliever would have seemed outlandish.
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Considering the team and the player, the logic behind the contract is reasonable enough. Nonetheless, it sets a high bar for every other free agent relief pitcher — and could set the stage for a signing frenzy prior to MLB"s unofficial Dec. 1 deadline.
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When the Collective Bargaining Agreement between MLB and the MLB Players Association expires on Dec. 1, the league is expected to lock out players — with no end date in sight. The potential for a long transactions freeze creates an obvious deadline for teams and players who are eager to strike a deal.
The potential for MLB to impose a salary cap in the new CBA might make some teams wary of issuing big-money deals that could force them to shed payroll before the 2028 season begins. Quality relievers — specifically middle relievers — typically command lower salaries than star position players or starting pitchers. Against this backdrop, it's hardly a surprise to see Phillips sign the first eight-figure deal of the offseason.
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Phillips was a closer for the eventual World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023 and 2024, recording 42 saves across the two seasons. An elbow injury that ultimately required Tommy John surgery diminished his role, however, and might have suppressed his value as a free agent for the first time.
Phillips, 32, showed flashes of brilliance after returning from rehab in 2026. He made six scoreless appearances in October for Los Angeles, after ending the regular season with a 1.46 ERA in his final 14 games, a span of 12.1 innings.
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The Braves had money to spend after former closer Raisel Iglesias, 36, became a free agent. Phillips gives Atlanta a younger alternative to Iglesias to pair with Robert Suarez at the back end of their bullpen. He also allows manager Walt Weiss to potentially move 21-year-old Didier Fuentes into the rotation next season.
Still, agents for other relief pitchers will take note of the market rate for Phillips as a point of comparison. The Dodgers' loss is not only the Braves' gain; it's a boon to free agents Alex Vesia, Bryan Abreu, Antonio Senzatela, and every other reliever look to maximize their market value before a lockout shuts down the sport.
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