Full Breakdown
Jordan Romano Signs with Los Angeles Angels After Tough Season with Phillies
12/17/2025, 3:45:22 AM
Overview of the Signing
Former Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jordan Romano has signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Los Angeles Angels, as reported by ESPN's Jeff Passan. This move comes after a challenging season for Romano, who posted an 8.23 ERA over 49 appearances with the Phillies in 2025. The Angels are hoping that Romano can rebound and return to the form that earned him two All-Star selections during his tenure with the Toronto Blue Jays.
Romano's Performance with the Phillies
Romano, 32, was initially signed by the Phillies to a one-year, $8.5 million deal in December 2024, with expectations of being a reliable option in the bullpen. However, his performance was marked by significant struggles, including a six-run ninth inning against the Miami Marlins and an inside-the-park walk-off home run against the San Francisco Giants. His season ended prematurely when he was placed on the injured list in late August due to right middle finger inflammation, after allowing four runs in a game against the New York Mets.
Angels' Strategy and Reclamation Projects
The Los Angeles Angels are actively pursuing reclamation projects as part of their strategy to improve their pitching staff. Alongside Romano, the team has also signed free agent Alek Manoah and acquired Grayson Rodriguez from the Baltimore Orioles. This approach reflects the Angels' need to revitalize their roster, particularly as they have not made the playoffs in 11 seasons and have not posted a winning record since 2016. The addition of Romano is seen as a potential low-risk investment that could yield high rewards if he can regain his previous form.
Official Statements & Responses
The Angels' decision to sign Romano aligns with their broader strategy of acquiring players who have faced challenges in recent seasons but possess the potential for recovery. The team is under new management, with Mike Maddux as the pitching coach and Kurt Suzuki as the manager, signaling a shift in direction for their pitching staff.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Romano's signing, some analysts question the effectiveness of relying on players coming off poor seasons. Critics argue that the Angels' history of signing reclamation projects has not consistently led to success, raising concerns about whether this strategy will finally break their postseason drought.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Los Angeles Angels are taking a $2 million flier on former Phillies closer Jordan Romano.” — Jeff Passan, ESPN
- “Romano, 32, heads to an Angels team loading up on reclamation projects in hopes of recapturing the form that landed him on two All-Star teams.” — Bobby Ohr, Blue Jays Insider
What's Next for Romano and the Angels
As Romano joins the Angels, he will be looking to prove himself and reclaim his status as a reliable closer. The upcoming season will be crucial for both him and the Angels as they aim to end their long playoff drought and restore their competitive edge in Major League Baseball.
