MLB free agency is gaining momentum following Juan Soto’s blockbuster deal with the New York Mets. Although the Philadelphia Phillies weren’t among the final contenders for Soto, they’ve been far from idle. On Monday, they bolstered their bullpen by signing former Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano.
He, who earned All-Star honors in 2022 and 2023, struggled in 2024 with a 6.59 ERA over 15 appearances before being sidelined for the season due to an elbow injury. The Blue Jays opted to non-tender him, making him a free agent. With several key relievers leaving Philadelphia in free agency, the Phillies seized the opportunity to sign Romano to a one-year deal.
“Closer Jordan Romano and the Philadelphia Phillies are in agreement on a free agent contract, pending physical, sources tell ESPN,” reported Jeff Passan. “Romano, 31, was non-tendered by Toronto earlier this offseason and joins a Phillies bullpen that has lost Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez to free agency.”
Phillies add potential stud reliever in Jordan Romano
There’s no sugarcoating it—2024 was a rough year for Jordan Romano. However, with his elbow now repaired, the hope is that he can bounce back in 2025. It’s important to remember that Romano was among the league’s elite closers before his recent struggles, recording 36 saves in both 2022 and 2023.
The Phillies lacked a true closer last season, which gives Romano a chance to claim the role if he can regain his form. Of course, he’ll need to perform significantly better than he did in 2024 once he’s healthy, but the one-year deal minimizes the risk for Philadelphia. With Romano adding depth to their bullpen, the focus now shifts to what the Phillies’ next move will be.
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