The Miami Marlins quest to improve their bullpen took a step forward, as they have reportedly added Sergio Romo on a one year deal.
On Monday, there were reports that the Miami Marlins were looking to stock their bullpen with pieces from outside the organization. This drew a bit of ridicule, as the Marlins are not exactly expected to contend in 2019. Yet, with the number of relievers available, and the Marlins likely looking for assets to sell at the deadline, this strategy made some sense.
On Tuesday, the Marlins enacted the first part of that plan. They agreed to terms with Sergio Romo on a one year deal, adding stability to the back of their bullpen.
Source: Veteran reliever Sergio Romo has agreed to a one-year MLB deal with the Marlins for $2.5 million plus incentives. The deal is pending a physical.
— Jesse Sanchez (@JesseSanchezMLB) February 12, 2019
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While Romo earned a great deal of notoriety as the first Opener that the Tampa Bay Rays trotted out in 2018, he had more value than by just taking the ball for the first inning. He finished the year as the Rays closer, notching 25 saves while posting a respectable 4.14 ERA and a 1.262 WHiP. In his 67.1 innings, Romo Struck out 75 batters while issuing only 20 walks.
Even if the Marlins make other moves that would take Romo out of the presumed closer role, he is still a valuable member of the pitching staff. Last year, he pitched in every inning except for the third for the Rays, filling any role without question. His willingness to work as the Opener got the pitching staff to buy in, helping the Rays to a surprising 90 win season.
That leadership may be just as valuable to the Marlins as what Romo can do on the mound. Adam Conley and Drew Steckenrider are intriguing pieces, but the Marlins will still have a young relief corps behind them. A veteran like Romo, who has filled every role on a pitching staff, would be the perfect mentor. Besides, if he performs well and the Marlins are out of contention, he could bring back a decent return at the trade deadline.
The Miami Marlins have added veteran reliever Sergio Romo on a one year deal. That is the kind of move that could pay off, both this year and beyond.