Oakland Athletics: Miguel Romero is ready to win bullpen spot

Luis Miguel Romero has been added to the 60-man pool by the Oakland Athletics.

Luis Miguel Romero was signed by the Oakland Athletics for $300K in 2017 as an international free agent by the ball club. The Guantánamo, Cuba native from the Manuel Tames Municipality figures into the plans of the ball club, especially in their bullpen.

Romero who consistently throws a fastball between 94-98 mph and has even reached triple digits with his heater might fill a void in the A’s pen as the setup man for closer Liam Hendriks. The 26-year-old Cuban spent last season at Las Vegas (AAA) and sported a record of 4-1 and an ERA of 3.96 while also recording three saves.

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During his three minor league seasons, the right-hander has fanned 189 batters in 163.1 innings pitched and has saved 17 games. Baseball America reported that the flamethrower also has the best curve in Oakland’s farm system.

With the stuff the young Antillean possesses and the expanded 28 man roster, Romero has a good chance of making the team with an impressive camp. Opponents only hit .234 last season against the closer last season during his time on the farm.

The closing down of the season worked in the Cuban’s favor because he had an injury to his pitching hand to during the beginning of Spring Training and might have had started the season in the minors.

This winter in the Puerto Rican League, Romero flashed his electric repertoire. During his 10-game in the circuit, he won two games, saved four others, and posted an ERA of 1.46 with the Mayaguez Indians as the team’s closer.

When I asked Romero earlier today via a phone call about his expectations for this year’s camp he replied, “I feel good and my COVID-19 comes back on Tuesday if it is negative, Wednesday I’ll be ready to go. I’m very happy that the ball club included me in their 60 man pool. If I pitch to the best of my abilities, I’m confident I can make the 28 man roster.”