Dodgers Rumors: Los Angeles Reliever Sergio Romo?
Sergio Romo may still take part in the historic Dodgers-Giants rivalry, but in blue rather than orange.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports the Dodgers are a finalist for Romo, along with the ever-elusive mystery team.
Sources: Romo choosing between #Dodgers and second, unidentified club. LAD also talking to other relievers, including Blanton.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) February 3, 2017
The 33-year-old Romo said Tuesday a reunion with San Francisco was unlikely. He also said there’s a chance spring training starts while he’s still unemployed.
“I’m looking for that right situation. I’m thankful that teams are still calling,” Romo said. “But right now, it’s not really money. It’s not. It’s more so finding exactly the place I need to go, the place I know I’ll be able to have the privilege of saying, like I did in San Francisco, that I went to work happy every day.”
Romo said fellow NL competitors Washington and New York have expressed interest, so it’s possible one of the two is the unidentified team in question. As Rosenthal notes, the Dodgers have alternatives, including Joe Blanton.
[graphiq id=”9ae2MoF6dL” title=”Sergio Romo 2016 Complete Pitching Splits” width=”600″ height=”861″ url=”https://w.graphiq.com/w/9ae2MoF6dL” ]A native of Brawley, California, returning to the southern part of the state could appeal to Romo. He pitched in 40 games in 2016, maintaining a 2.64 ERA in 30.2 innings, the fewest in his career. His walk and home run rates jumped, and his 3.80 FIP is better indicative of his performance.
Since saving 38 games in 2013, Romo has registered only 29 in the past three seasons.
Romo is on the decline, but the Dodgers are seeking bullpen depth. Taking a flier on Romo could be worth it if the organization believes there’s even a slight chance he can regain some of his old form.