The Blue Jays got a little bit more Canadian today when they promoted RHP Jordan Romano, a Markham, ON native, to the big league roster.
Romano’s journey to the bigs has been anything but linear.
Left off the 40 man last fall, he was selected by the White Sox in the Rule 5, then dealt to the Rangers the same day. Romano had a lengthy audition with Texas in spring training, but he was sent back to the Blue Jays before the season began.
Sent to Buffalo, Romano was moved back to the bullpen. Romano had been a closer for Oral Roberts prior to being drafted in 2014, and while he has the build and mindset of a starter, his stuff has played up in relief, and he’s been one of the Bisons’ best relievers.
A winner of his first 8 decisions with New Hampshire last year, he was a starting pitcher in the Eastern League All Star game, but his inability to get left handed hitters out on a consistent basis ultimately led to his move to relief. He had vastly improved his change up last year to keep lefties honest, but a rough second half caused the Blue Jays to leave him off the 40 in what must have been a difficult decision.
Romano has fanned 43 in 31 innings this season. Here’s a look at him from several year ago.
