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Toronto Blue Jays relief pitcher Jordan Romano is one of the best closers in MLB. Romano has totaled back-to-back 36-save seasons while totaling 145 strikeouts with a 2.51 ERA combined over those two seasons. The right-hander also has the fourth-most saves (95) since the start of the 2021 season.
However, Romano is dealing with an injury to start the season. The 30-year-old veteran has some inflammation in his right elbow, which has delayed his 2024 campaign.
So, how serious is Romano's elbow injury? When is he coming back? Let's dive in and find out.
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Jordan Romano Injury Update
Romano appeared in five spring training games this year before making his last appearance on March 10. Soon after that appearance, the right-hander was dealing with some inflammation in his right elbow. That caused the Blue Jays to shut him down from throwing for a couple of days.
Despite Romano eventually playing catch for the first time on March 23, Toronto still placed the closer on the 15-day injured list to begin the year. He will be out for at least 15 days as he continues to build back up from his spring injury.
John Schneider says it’s “reasonable to say” that both Jordan Romano and Erik Swanson will start the season on the IL.
No moves yet, because Gausman’s status will play into that pitching puzzle.
Ideally, Romano and Swanson are on a mound building up next week. #BlueJays
— Keegan Matheson (@KeeganMatheson) March 25, 2024
How long Romano will stay on the IL remains to be seen. Blue Jays general manager Ross Atkins did say, though, that he is optimistic the right-hander's IL stint will be short. He is first eligible to come off the IL on April 9, but when he gets activated will depend on his progression over the next 10 days.
Jordan Romano Fantasy Baseball Outlook
There is optimism that Romano will be back sooner rather than later, which is great news for his fantasy value. Assuming he only misses three to four weeks, the closer should be back by the middle to end of April. His recovery and progression will depend on how long he actually misses.
For now, fantasy managers should plug Romano into one of their IL slots. The right-hander is one of the top closers in fantasy, so he shouldn't be dropped in most cases -- unless your IL slots are already filled with prominent players like Kodai Senga, Justin Verlander, and/or Gerrit Cole.
Jordan Romano Not Expected To Be Out Long https://t.co/fgsu2QQ2LI
— RotoBaller MLB (@RotoBallerMLB) March 28, 2024
It appears Romano didn't suffer a long-term injury, and he should be back shortly. Upon his return, he will resume closer duties for the Blue Jays.
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