Philadelphia Phillies' Jordan Romano Named 'Worst Pitcher' of 2025 Season

What's Happening?

The Philadelphia Phillies are facing potential elimination in the 2025 MLB playoffs, trailing 2-0 against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The team had aimed to strengthen their bullpen by signing reliever Jordan Romano to a one-year, $8.5 million contract, hoping he would serve as their closer. However, Romano's performance fell short of expectations, leading to his designation as the 'worst pitcher' of the season by Bleacher Report. Romano, who previously had a successful stint with the Toronto Blue Jays, struggled significantly, posting an 8.23 ERA over 42.2 innings in 49 appearances. His performance metrics, including a bWAR of -1.7 and high home run and hit rates, contributed to his disappointing season. Additionally, Romano was left off the Phillies' postseason roster due to a middle finger inflammation injury.

Why It's Important?

Jordan Romano's underperformance has significant implications for the Philadelphia Phillies, who invested in him to bolster their bullpen. His struggles highlight the challenges teams face in predicting player performance and the risks associated with high-profile signings. The Phillies' decision to leave Romano off the postseason roster underscores the impact of his performance on the team's playoff strategy. This situation also raises questions about Romano's future in MLB, as his recent track record may affect his prospects with other teams. For the Phillies, addressing bullpen weaknesses remains a critical task, especially as they aim to remain competitive in future seasons.

What's Next?

The Phillies will need to reassess their bullpen strategy moving forward, potentially seeking new talent to fill the gaps left by Romano's underperformance. Romano's future in MLB is uncertain, as teams may be hesitant to sign him given his recent struggles. The Phillies' management will likely explore other options to strengthen their pitching staff, possibly through trades or free agency. Additionally, Romano may need to focus on rehabilitation and performance improvement to regain his form and attract interest from other teams.