Phillies Bolster Bullpen with One-Year Deal for Jordan Romano
The Phillies have addressed their bullpen needs by signing free agent right-hander Jordan Romano to a one-year deal, according to multiple reports. While not a blockbuster acquisition, the move signals Philadelphia’s ongoing commitment to improving its relief corps.
Romano, who turns 32 in April, will add valuable experience and potential to the Phillies’ late-inning mix. He was a dominant closer for the Toronto Blue Jays from 2021-2023, posting a stellar 2.37 ERA and racking up 95 saves.
Romano Offers Upside with Injury Concerns
However, injury concerns surround Romano after a disappointing 2024 campaign. He struggled with elbow inflammation early in the season, eventually requiring arthroscopic surgery in July. His ERA ballooned to 6.59 in 13 2/3 innings, leading to his non-tender by the Blue Jays.
The Phillies are betting that Romano can return to his previous form. After a thorough physical examination, the team believes he is healthy and capable of contributing in a significant way. The one-year deal, pending a physical, offers minimal risk for Philadelphia.
<h2>Romano Gives Phillies Potential High-Leverage Arm</h2>
<p>Romano's arsenal features a biting slider and a fastball that consistently sits in the mid-90s. During his peak, he averaged 62 innings per season, demonstrating his durability as a reliable late-inning option. The Phillies hope Romano will thrive in a new environment, allowing him to regain his confidence and provide crucial outs in crucial situations.</p>
<p>"Both sides are making a bet that Romano can prove he’s healthy — and as effective as he was during that recent three-year span," a source familiar with the deal said. </p>
<h1>Romano Joins Phillies Bullpen Mix</h1>
<p>Romano will join a late-inning bullpen group that already includes right-hander Orion Kerkering and lefties Matt Strahm and José Alvarado. </p>
<p>“We prioritized a bullpen addition,” said Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski. “We might acquire only one reliever to replace some of the free agents we have like Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estévez, if they depart."</p>
<p>Dombrowski’s statement suggests the Phillies could still be exploring further bullpen upgrades. The Romano deal, with its relatively modest terms, may allow them more flexibility to pursue additional relievers. Romano’s arrival also could impact the Phillies’ pursuit of certain free agents. </p>
<p>"That calculus could change given the smaller terms of the Romano contract," the source said. "The Phillies have remained interested in a reunion with Hoffman; it’s unclear whether they can find a match. The Phillies continue to seek an outfielder and have engaged various clubs in trade talks that could shake up the roster.” </p>
<p> For now, the Romano signing addresses a key need for Philadelphia. It also represents the first of what could be several moves made by the Phillies as they aim to return to contention in 2025.
how has Jordan Romano’s performance been affected by his past injuries? [[1](https://www.phillyvoice.com/phillies-news-jordan-romano-closer-free-agent-bullpen-blue-jays-mlb/)]
Given Romano’s injury history, is this a risky move for the Phillies or a shrewd gamble that could pay big dividends?
