Dodgers lose standout reliever Evan Phillips in World Series shakeup

LOS ANGELES – The Dodgers’ bullpen received a boost with the return of two quality relievers, but also faced a setback as one of their key pitchers was sidelined.

Right-hander Evan Phillips was unable to participate in the World Series after sustaining an arm injury in Game 6 against the Mets. In his place, left-hander Alex Vesia and hard-throwing righty Brusdar Graterol were added to the roster.

With multiple injuries impacting their starting rotation, the Dodgers have heavily relied on their bullpen throughout the playoffs, utilizing only three starters – Jack Flaherty, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Walker Buehler.

Phillips’ absence is a significant loss for the team, as he has been one of their top high-leverage arms, delivering 6 2/3 innings of shutout relief in the postseason.

During the regular season, Phillips posted a 3.62 ERA in 61 games over 54 2/3 innings.

Vesia was sidelined during the NLCS due to an intercostal strain, while Graterol’s last appearance was on Sept. 24. Graterol only made seven appearances this season due to various injuries.

Having Vesia back provides the Dodgers with a second lefty in the bullpen alongside Anthony Banda. Vesia boasted a 1.76 ERA in 66 1/3 regular season innings and delivered three scoreless frames in the NLDS.