The Toronto Blue Jays non-tendered their former closer Jordan Romano. That move, made Friday, makes him a free agent. The 31-year-old could re-sign with the Blue Jays on a deal worth less than $7.75 million he was scheduled to receive via arbitration, per MLB Trade Rumors’ estimates. However, the Blue Jays parting with Romano underscores their concern about his health as he missed most of the 2024 season that required season-ending surgery. With Romano’s departure, the Blue Jays will need to find a new closer – here are some internal and external options to consider.
Top Candidates for the Blue Jays’ Closer Role
Internal Option: Chad Green, RHP
2024 stats: 3.21 ERA, 46 K, 18 SV, 53 1/3 IP
After Romano’s injury, right-hander Chad Green took over the Blue Jays closer. Through the end of August, Green performed well in the role, earning 17 saves with a 1.61 ERA. However, he hit a wall in September, surrendering 11 earned runs in 8 2/3 innings. As a veteran of nine MLB seasons, Green has extensive experience pitching in leverage situations. However, his strikeout rate dropped to 21.9 percent this year, well below his 31.2 percent career rate. Furthermore, his average exit velocity allowed was a concerning 91.3 mph, ranking in the bottom one percent of MLB.
Given these struggles, Green may be better suited for a setup man role. As the only internal option, he could provide value in a lesser capacity.
External Options for the Blue Jays’ Closer Role
As the Blue Jays search for a new closer, several external options could fill the void. Here are three potential candidates:
Tanner Scott, LHP
2024 stats: 1.75 ERA, 84 K, 22 SV, 72 IP
Scott is emerging from a remarkable season that saw him showcase his talents with the Miami Marlins and the San Diego Padres. As a left-handed pitcher, he possesses an exceptional upper-80s fastball paired with a high-80s slider, creating a dynamic and effective pitching repertoire that is difficult for hitters to manage. Although there is some concern regarding his walk rate of 12.2 percent, which could indicate a tendency to allow too many base runners, his striking ability is noteworthy. With an impressive strikeout rate of 28.6 percent, Scott’s ability to dominate batters significantly mitigates the risks associated with his command issues.
Clay Holmes, RHP
2024 stats: 3.14 ERA, 68 K, 30 SV, 63 IP
Clay Holmes has made an impressive leap in his career, transforming from a middle reliever with a disappointing career ERA exceeding 5.00 in 2021 to a formidable closer for the New York Yankees. Since donning the iconic pinstripes, Holmes has amassed an impressive 74 career saves while posting a stellar 2.69 ERA, establishing himself as a dependable presence on the mound during high-pressure situations. Although the 2024 season presented its challenges, with Holmes grappling with fluctuations in his performance and coming perilously close to losing his coveted closer role, he showcased his resilience by bouncing back in the postseason.
His strong showing during this critical period has not only rekindled his reputation but also significantly enhanced his prospects heading into free agency.
Carlos Estévez, RHP
2024 stats: 2.45 ERA, 50 K, 26 SV, 55 IP
Estévez just completed an impressive 2024 season, while playing for the Los Angeles Angels and the Philadelphia Phillies. The right-handed pitcher captivates with a blazing fastball that reaches speeds of 97 mph, complemented by his sharp slider and effective changeup. Throughout the season, Estévez made significant improvements, achieving a remarkable career-low walk rate of 5.7 percent and holding opposing hitters to a mere .191 batting average.
His dual experience as both a closer and a setup man not only highlights his versatility on the mound but also underscores his reliability under pressure, making him a valuable asset to any team.
Other candidates: Kenley Jansen, Jeff Hoffman, Kirby Yates, Kyle Finnegan
