Evan Phillips has established himself as one of the best relief pitchers since joining the Los Angeles Dodgers three years ago, but is in the midst of a rare rough patch.
The right-hander has posted an 11.37 ERA over his last seven appearances, which includes blown saves against the Milwaukee Brewers and Detroit Tigers.
Phillips’ struggles continued on Saturday when he allowed a two-run homer to Tyler O’Neill in the 10th inning. He would’ve taken the loss if not for Kiké Hernández tying the game in the bottom of the frame.
The following day against the Red Sox, he allowed three runs and retired just one batter faced.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the team is trying to find the source of Phillips’ recent woes, via Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“We’re trying to dig in on it,” Roberts said of Phillips’ recent struggles. “He says he feels good, but the execution isn’t what it has been and should be.
“We need to get that execution dialed in. So I don’t know if it’s a mechanical thing. I know he’s one of the most mentally tough guys that we have. And one of the most intelligent guys we have. But this game is hard and dealing with failure is difficult.”
Barring an unknown injury, Phillips’ struggles can likely be chalked up to a mechanical issue or simply a slump. The 29-year-old has been one of the Dodgers’ most consistent relievers in recent years, so this is unknown territory for him.
Phillips did miss nearly a month this year due to a right hamstring strain, but there are no indications that the injury is still plaguing him.
After allowing runs in six of his eight most recent outings, Phillips owns a 2-0 record, 3.77 ERA, 4.02 FIP, 1.23 WHIP, 9.87 strikeouts per nine and 14 saves in 31 innings pitched this season (32 games).
Evan Phillips ‘on board’ with any role
Phillips has primarily served as the Dodgers closer this year, but could still be used in different roles depending on the situation.
He noted earlier this season that he is willing to do whatever it takes to help the club accomplish their goal of winning a World Series.
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