Jordan Romano had been one of the best closers in baseball before his injury plagued 2024 season. The Philadelphia Phillies are hoping that he can return to form.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that the Phillies signed Romano on Monday. Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Enquirer reported that Romano will receive $7.75M for the 2025 season.
Romano had been a mainstay in 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 while striking out 230 batters with 70 walks. He had become a dominant option since taking over as the Blue Jays closer.
The 2024 season changed that. Romano battled elbow inflammation during spring training and started the season on the Injured List. He struggled when he returned, posting a 6.59 ERA and a 1.463 WHiP in his 13.2 innings before returning to the IL.
Romano underwent elbow surgery in July and missed the rest of the season. He was non-tendered by the Blue Jays as they opted to let him go instead of heading to arbitration one final time.
The Phillies bullpen is in a state of flux. Relievers Seranthony Dominguez and Gregory Soto were traded at the deadline. Two more relievers, Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez, became free agents. While Matt Strahm has found a home as a reliever and youngster Orion Kerkering has shown promise, the Phillies need a proven option for the ninth inning as they look to contend.
Romano has been that pitcher in the past. If he is healthy, the Phillies bullpen may not miss a step despite a high turnover rate. It is a gamble that the Phillies had to take as they look to return to the postseason.
