Jordan Romano had been probably the greatest closers in baseball earlier than his harm plagued 2024 season. The Philadelphia Phillies are hoping that he can return to type.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that the Phillies signed Romano on Monday. Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Enquirer reported that Romano will obtain $7.75M for the 2025 season.
Romano had been a mainstay within the Blue Jays bullpen between 2021-23. A two-time All-Star, he posted a 2.37 ERA and a 1.091 WHiP in his 186 innings, notching 95 saves whereas hanging out 230 batters with 70 walks. He had turn into a dominant possibility since taking on because the Blue Jays nearer.
The 2024 season modified that. Romano battled elbow inflammation throughout spring coaching and began the season on the Injured Checklist. He struggled when he returned, posting a 6.59 ERA and a 1.463 WHiP in his 13.2 innings earlier than returning to the IL.
Romano underwent elbow surgery in July and missed the remainder of the season. He was non-tendered by the Blue Jays as they opted to let him go as an alternative of heading to arbitration one ultimate time.
The Phillies bullpen is in a state of flux. Relievers Seranthony Dominguez and Gregory Soto have been traded on the deadline. Two extra relievers, Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez, turned free brokers. Whereas Matt Strahm has discovered a house as a reliever and teenager Orion Kerkering has proven promise, the Phillies want a confirmed possibility for the ninth inning as they appear to contend.
Romano has been that pitcher up to now. If he’s wholesome, the Phillies bullpen might not miss a step regardless of a excessive turnover fee. It’s a gamble that the Phillies needed to take as they appear to return to the postseason.
