He made his MLB debut for the Indians in September 2002. He played with Cleveland until he was traded to the Cincinnati Reds in 2006. During his career Phillips has been a three time All-Star in 2010, 2011, and 2013. He has won four Gold Glove Awards in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2013, and also a Silver Slugger Award in 2011. In 2008 he signed a four year $27 million contract extension. As of May 2014 he has over 1,450 hits and 165 home runs.
