MLB Rumors: Jordan Romano’s Struggles Raise Early Concerns for Philadelphia Phillies' Bullpen Plans
The Philadelphia Phillies are off to a solid 9-5 start in 2025, sitting tied atop the National League East, but there's one area that’s raising red flags early: the back end of their bullpen.
According to USA Today, team officials are already growing concerned with closer Jordan Romano’s performance, as the veteran right-hander has not looked like the dominant reliever he once was.
Velocity Dip & Mounting ERA: Romano’s Troubles in Focus
Once a flamethrower reaching nearly 97 mph, Romano’s fastball is now topping out around 94 mph, a noticeable drop that’s making it harder to put hitters away. Through his first seven appearances with Philly, he’s carrying a worrying 10.50 ERA and has managed just one save.
This comes after an injury-riddled 2024 season with Toronto, where he posted a 6.59 ERA in limited action (15 games). Though the Phillies took a calculated risk by signing Romano to a one-year, $8.5 million deal, early returns suggest that gamble may not pay off unless he rebounds soon.
Is Injury Still a Factor?
There’s growing speculation that the lingering effects of last season’s injury could still be impacting Romano. While the specifics aren’t public, the reduced velocity and lack of command have fans and analysts alike questioning whether he's fully recovered—or whether his best years are behind him.
Romano has 106 career saves, and during his peak years in Toronto, he was among the most reliable closers in the American League. But that version of him has yet to show up in Philadelphia.
Phillies’ Pennant Hopes Rely on a Stable Bullpen
For a club that has World Series aspirations, the closer role is far too important to leave unsettled. The NL is stacked—with the Dodgers, Braves, and even a resurgent Mets team lurking—so Philadelphia can’t afford uncertainty at the end of games.
If Romano doesn’t turn things around quickly, manager Rob Thomson may have to consider bullpen alternatives, or even look outside the organization for a more stable ninth-inning option.
Looking Ahead
The Phillies continue their homestand against the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday, hoping to ride the momentum of a 6-4 run over their last 10 games. But as the offense clicks and the rotation holds steady, all eyes will remain on Romano’s velocity gun and box score—because if this trend continues, the Phillies' bullpen could quickly become a glaring weak spot.
Whether it's a mechanical issue, injury residue, or a simple cold stretch, Romano's next few outings could be pivotal—for his role, and for Philly’s hopes of reclaiming NL dominance.
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