One potential target for the Orioles is right-hander Jordan Romano, a former All-Star closer for the Toronto Blue Jays. Projected to earn $7.75 million in arbitration, Romano was non-tendered by the Blue Jays, making him an appealing rebound candidate. However, the main concern with Romano is his health—he managed just 13.2 innings in 2024 due to an elbow impingement. There were hopes that he could return before the end of the season, but with the Blue Jays out of playoff contention, he was not rushed back.
Despite an injury-riddled 2024, Romano was highly effective in previous seasons. From 2021 to 2023, he pitched 186 innings with a 2.37 ERA, striking out 230 batters and converting 95 of 106 save opportunities. Only Emmanuel Clase, Kenley Jansen, and Josh Hader had more saves in that span. Romano’s fastball-slider combo is elite, with his fastball averaging 96.7 mph and a 137 Stuff+ rating in 2023—ranking among the top 20 in MLB. His fastball limited opponents to a .222 average and a .370 slugging percentage, while his slider was even more effective, holding hitters to a .216 average and .338 slugging percentage, with a 38.6% whiff rate.
The Orioles need to replace the 60 innings of production lost from Webb and the effective but injury-plagued Coulombe. While Felix Bautista is expected to be ready for Opening Day, his recovery from Tommy John surgery brings some uncertainty. Additionally, Luis Gonzalez and Kade Strowd, who were added to the 40-man roster, offer potential but come with their own question marks. Gonzalez is 33 and has yet to pitch in the majors, while Strowd’s value lies more in his minor league options than in his current big-league readiness.
Given these bullpen uncertainties, taking a chance on Romano could be worthwhile. The Orioles are no longer operating under the financial constraints of previous ownership, so taking a calculated risk on a proven veteran like Romano should not be a concern. If healthy, a Bautista-Romano duo at the back end of the bullpen could become one of the most formidable in baseball, allowing other relievers like Cano and Dominguez to be used more effectively. Baltimore had previously shown interest in Romano, and now, with the opportunity to acquire him at a discount and without trading prospects, he could be an excellent addition to their 2025 bullpen, provided his medicals check out.