Dodgers’ Hernandez and Phillips Eyeing Mid-Season Returns, Diaz Adds Firepower

The Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating key player recoveries as they prepare for the 2026 season, with Enrique Hernandez and Evan Phillips both targeting returns around mid-season. Meanwhile, the recent acquisition of Edwin Diaz is poised to bolster the team’s bullpen.

Hernandez’s Recovery Timeline

Enrique Hernandez underwent surgery in November to address a torn muscle in his left arm, an injury he played through for much of the 2025 season. Initially, Hernandez suggested a recovery period of “a month or two” MLB Trade Rumors, but Dodgers GM Brandon Gomes anticipates a slightly longer timeline, projecting his return closer to mid-season MLB Trade Rumors. Hernandez has not been placed on the 60-day injured list, indicating a potential for an earlier return within the first two months of the regular season MLB Trade Rumors. He is expected to begin swinging soon, allowing the team to assess his progress MLB Trade Rumors.

Hernandez, a key contributor to the Dodgers’ three championship teams over the last six years, signed a one-year, $4.5MM free agent contract with the team MLB Trade Rumors and MLB.com. Throughout his 12-year Major League career, he has a .236/.305/.403 slash line over 4152 plate appearances, but his postseason performance (.272/.339/.486 in 328 plate appearances) has solidified his value to the team MLB Trade Rumors.

Phillips’ Return from Tommy John Surgery

Reliever Evan Phillips is similarly expected to return around late July, mirroring a trade deadline acquisition MLB Trade Rumors. Having undergone Tommy John surgery in late May 2025, his timeline aligns with the typical rehabilitation period MLB Trade Rumors. Phillips aims to be back by August, with a focus on being fully prepared for playoff baseball MLB Trade Rumors.

The Dodgers re-signed Phillips to a one-year, $6.5MM deal after non-tendering him in November MLB Trade Rumors. From 2022-2025, Phillips recorded a 2.14 ERA over 184 2/3 innings, securing 45 saves as the team’s closer MLB Trade Rumors.

Diaz Joins the Dodgers Bullpen

The Dodgers added significant bullpen strength with the signing of Edwin Diaz to a three-year, $69MM contract MLB Trade Rumors. This deal includes a record $23MM average annual value for a relief pitcher MLB Trade Rumors. Diaz chose the Dodgers over a three-year, $66MM offer from the Mets, despite the Mets’ willingness to potentially increase their bid MLB Trade Rumors.

Upon his return, Phillips will not resume the closer role, as that position is now filled by Diaz MLB Trade Rumors.