Dodgers Analysis: Non-Tender Candidates
What players could be an option to be non-tendered before the Nov. 12 deadline?
LOS ANGELES, CA—The Dodgers have taken advantage of the non-tender deadline in recent years to clear spots on their 40-man roster for a busy winter.
Last season, the Dodgers opted to non-tender October hero Brent Honeywell despite the franchise commending him for his work during the 2024 postseason.
The organization has also shocked the MLB landscape when they decided to non-tender former MVP Award winner Cody Bellinger after the 2022 season, and with a big offseason on the horizon yet again, what players could be biting the bullet before the November 12th non-tender deadline?
Tony Gonsolin
Right-handed pitcher Tony “Cat Man” Gonsolin is entering his final year of arbitration and is set to become a free agent after the conclusion of the 2026 season.
While Gonsolin has had a promising career in Dodger Blue and was a massive part of their success during the 2020, 2021, and 2022 seasons, the right-hander has been plagued with injuries since and will miss a significant chunk of the 2026 season after undergoing an internal brace procedure, which will put him out around eight to ten months.
The two sides were able to avoid arbitration last season, agreeing to a one-year, $5.4 million deal, and is expected to fetch a similar price in arbitration this season, but with the Dodgers having a surplus of pitching, they could benefit from the extra spot on the 40-man roster this winter and cut ties with Gonsolin now.
Evan Phillips
Similar to the situation revolving around Tony Gonsolin, right-hander Evan Phillips is also set to miss a decent amount of the 2026 season while recovering from mid-season Tommy John surgery.
When on the field, Phillips was one of the Dodgers’ most trusted arms out of the bullpen, posting a 2.22 ERA across 195 innings pitched since the 2021 season.
Like Gonsolin Phillips is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season, and with the Dodgers having a luxury of arms coming back next season, the team could move on from Phillips as he recovers from surgery.
However, the bullpen will be a significant part of the Dodgers’ offseason, as the unit struggles mightily this season despite multiple massive contracts given to lefty Tanner Scott, veteran Blake Treinen, and Kirby Yates.
Other Options
- Ben Rortvedt: Out of minor league options, the Dodgers have Dalton Rushing, who is MLB-ready.
- Anthony Banda: Out of minor league options, but a spot in the bullpen seems secured for now
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