Jordan Romano stabilizing Toronto Blue Jays bullpen
The Toronto Blue Jays‘ closer situation was unsettled throughout most of the 2021 season. Nine different pitchers recorded saves over the course of the season, with the closer role shuffled about until the middle of August. That was when Jordan Romano took over the role for good, seizing the ninth inning for his own.
It was fair to wonder what Romano would be after his breakout campaign in 2021. While the Blue Jays had worked to improve their pitching staff and bullpen, the ninth inning was earmarked for Romano. To say that his performance could determine the course of the season was not hyperbolic.
Jordan Romano being what Toronto Blue Jays needed
Thus far, Romano has been everything that the Blue Jays could have hoped for. He has posted a 1.74 ERA and a 0.968 WHiP in his 10.1 innings, striking out 12 batters with two walks. His nine saves lead the American League as he has given Toronto a worry-free option for the ninth inning.
It is possible that the Blue Jays’ closer carousel over the first few months of 2021 cost them a playoff berth. Injuries and ineffectiveness played a part in their inability to land on a permanent option for the ninth inning, but that is not the case this year.
That could be the difference for the Blue Jays this season. Their postseason aspirations are clear; with their young core and stellar pitching staff, the time is now. Having Romano to fill that void in the ninth inning will go a long way to stabilizing the rest of the pitching staff and turning those postseason hopes into a reality.
Next. Manoah dazzling in the early going. dark
The Toronto Blue Jays needed someone to stabilize the ninth inning this season. Jordan Romano has been exactly the piece they were hoping for.