Phillies Bolster Bullpen with Acquisition of Jordan Romano
In a strategic move to enhance their bullpen's depth, the Philadelphia Phillies have signed former Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano. This one-year deal, valued at over $7.75 million, underpins the Phillies' efforts to strengthen their roster and improve late-game performance.
The acquisition of Romano comes at a critical juncture for the Phillies, who are seeking a reliable presence to fill the void left by Carlos Estévez, now a free agent. Romano, a right-handed pitcher aged 31, was non-tendered by the Blue Jays, creating an opportunity for Philadelphia to bring him aboard. Despite a challenging last season with Toronto, marked by an elbow injury that required surgery, Romano's track record suggests significant potential.
During his tenure from 2019 to 2021, Romano demonstrated his capabilities with an impressive 2.37 ERA and a 1.09 WHIP, along with 230 strikeouts in 186 innings, solidifying his reputation as a formidable force in the bullpen. However, last season proved difficult due to his injury woes, reflected in a 6.59 ERA and 1.46 WHIP over 15 appearances. The Phillies are optimistic, however, that with proper rehabilitation and support, Romano can regain his previous form and become a pivotal asset.
Adding Romano to the mix diversifies the Phillies' pitching options alongside Orion Kerkering and José Ruiz, both right-handers, as well as left-hander Matt Strahm. Strahm, in particular, had an impressive 2024 season with the team, showcasing both consistency and effectiveness in high-pressure situations. Tanner Banks also emerged as a dependable option late last season, providing the team with crucial flexibility.
Another key player in the Phillies bullpen, José Alvarado, experienced a downturn last season. His ERA rose from a sharp 1.74 in 2023 to 4.09, accompanied by a decrease in strikeouts and an increase in walks. The Phillies hope that the inclusion of Romano can help stabilize the bullpen, offering more reliable options in tight contests.
The decision to pursue Romano is both a testament to his potential for a comeback and a reflection of the Phillies' strategy to build a diverse and resilient bullpen. While Romano's injury history presents some questions, his past performance indicates he has the skill set required to reclaim his status as a top-tier closer. Partnering him with a robust supporting cast heightens the Phillies' bullpen as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With the upcoming season on the horizon, the Phillies are clearly determined to craft a competitive edge through calculated signings such as that of Jordan Romano. If all goes as planned and Romano returns to form, Philadelphia's late-game pitching could emerge as a key strength, potentially paving the way for a successful campaign. As training begins and the team sets its sights on the future, all eyes will surely be on how Romano integrates and contributes to the team's ambitions.