As Romano Continues to Struggle, Fans Wonder if Phils’ New Reliever Will Ever Locate the Zone

Despite the series win over the Los Angeles Dodgers, Phillies’ reliever Jordan Romano found himself having a hard time in his appearances. This was a big concern to start the 2025 season, as his season last year with the Toronto Blue Jays didn’t go as well as expected.

During the 2024 season, Romano had a 6.59 ERA in only 15 games played. Staying healthy and consistent was a big concern regarding Romano coming to the Phillies

There was, however, the hope of bringing in an All-Star closer after Romano had a two-year stretch of thirty-plus saves in 2022 and 2023. In those years, Romano was able to keep his ERA under 3.00 and had around sixty appearances for the Jays.

Romano Against the Dodgers

In game one of this series, Romano got the nod for the ninth inning in a 3-0 ballgame. Although he picked up the save, the Dodgers tightened the game with a two-run home run from infielder Tommy Edman. Despite the setback, Realmuto and Romano teamed up for a strikeout-throw out double play to end the game.

With an opportunity to hold the game for the Phillies in the seventh inning of Sunday’s rubber match, Romano continued to lack control of the strike zone. Allowing two hits and walking a batter led to the three earned runs, giving the Dodgers the lead.

What’s Next for Romano?

With a competitive ball club like the Philadelphia Phillies, a reliable closer is extremely valuable, especially when going into the postseason. It’s not certain how long we will be able to depend on Jose Alvarado, meaning Romano and his contract will have to show signs of improvement before the All-Star break.

With prior closers such as Craig Kimbrel and Carlós Estevez not being able to finish the job, will Jordan Romano find his place and pull through for the Phillies?

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