Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies made a significant move on Monday by signing All-Star closer Jordan Romano to a one-year, $8.5 million contract. Romano, 31, had been one of the top closers in baseball from 2021-23 before an elbow injury led to surgery last season. Despite concerns about his health and salary arbitration, he passed his physical in Philadelphia and is reportedly throwing well.

Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski commented on the acquisition, stating, “He’s one of the best back-end, high-leverage guys in baseball.” Romano's addition gives the Phillies more flexibility with their payroll and likely closes the door on pursuing other free-agent right-handers such as Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman.

Romano posted impressive stats with a 2.37 ERA and saved 95 games over three years, leading all relievers with a 7.4 WAR according to Baseball Reference. While Phillies manager Rob Thomson did not promise him the closer role for 2025, he noted that Romano will be used in high-leverage situations.

The Phillies' bullpen now includes right-handers Orion Kerkering and José Ruiz alongside left-handers Matt Strahm, José Alvarado, and Tanner Banks. Dombrowski expressed confidence in the current roster but remained open to potential additions if they significantly improve the team.

Dombrowski also discussed the team's broader strategy at the Winter Meetings following Juan Soto's record-breaking contract with the Mets. The Phillies had not pursued Soto aggressively due to financial considerations and their existing talent pool.

Regarding future acquisitions, Dombrowski said: “I’m not sure what else I would say is our priority, other than to get better.” He emphasized that any trades or signings must improve the team without weakening its core strength.

Looking ahead, Dombrowski mentioned areas needing improvement such as left field or center field positions and potentially replacing third baseman Alec Bohm if traded. However, signing players with qualifying offers could cost draft picks and international bonus money—a factor under consideration.

While trade discussions continue behind closed doors, Dombrowski maintained an open-minded approach: “We’ve had a lot of conversations with people... you want to get at least equal... if you're changing faces.”

Overall, while Romano's signing strengthens their bullpen options for next season without compromising financial flexibility elsewhere on their roster-building efforts this offseason remains fluid amidst ongoing negotiations within Major League Baseball circles during these meetings here today!