DALLAS --
The Phillies have agreed to terms on a one-year deal with right-handed closer Jordan Romano, multiple sources confirmed Monday. The deal is believed to be in the neighborhood of $8 million.
Romano, 31, struggled through an injury-marred 2024 season, logging just 13 2/3 innings for Toronto and posting a 6.59 ERA. A right elbow impingement sidelined him for much of the year. Still, his track record before the injury made him one of the sport’s premier late-inning arms. From 2019 to 2023, Romano compiled a 2.29 ERA, notched 97 saves, and averaged 62 innings per season. He also paired a biting slider with a fastball that averaged 97 mph, helping him hold opposing hitters to a 1.07 WHIP over that span.
Toronto non-tendered Romano last month rather than pay him an arbitration-eligible salary projected to approach $8 million. It was a cost-cutting move for the Blue Jays, who viewed the price tag as too steep.
The native Canadian was a fan favorite in Toronto and highly regarded by his teammates.
For the Phillies, Romano fills a key need in a bullpen that needs to be rebuilt.
Assuming his elbow is healthy, he’ll likely slot into a late-inning mix that features right-hander Orion Kerkering and left-handers Matt Strahm and José Alvarado.
Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski identified bullpen depth as a priority this offseason, though he recently suggested the team might limit itself to just one reliever addition, particularly if free agents Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estévez depart.
Romano’s ability to recapture his form could be pivotal for a team looking to strengthen its back end while keeping costs in check.
