Former Toronto Blue Jays all-star closer Jordan Romano has quickly been installed as the Colorado Rockies' closer after being cut by the Los Angeles Angels earlier this season. The Rockies are giving him the full star treatment, complete with a flame-filled entrance at Coors Field.
Romano's Rocky Road to Colorado
Romano, a Markham, Ontario native, began the 2026 season as the Angels' closer, picking up four saves in six scoreless appearances over five innings. However, he then blew two consecutive save opportunities against the New York Yankees, giving up five runs and recording just one out in two games. After bouncing back with two scoreless outings in low-stakes situations, he was lit up again in his final appearance before being designated for assignment: four runs on three hits in the eighth inning of a 12-1 loss to the Kansas City Royals on April 26.
After being designated for assignment and released in late April, Romano signed a minor-league deal with the Rockies. He was called up on July 4 and immediately inserted into the closer role.
VIP Treatment with Flames
The Rockies have rolled out the red carpet for Romano, complete with a dramatic entrance. Grace Del Pizzo, a Philadelphia-based reporter, posted on X: "The Rockies are currently giving Jordan Romano a closer entrance, complete with flames. This is something, for sure." The video clip showed flame graphics on all videoboards at Coors Field and the song "Tsunami" by DVBBS & Borgeous playing loudly as Romano entered from the bullpen.
While social media users questioned the theatrics for a player whose best years may be behind him, the hype appears to be working. In his first two appearances for Colorado on July 5 and 6 against the San Francisco Giants, Romano allowed one hit and struck out two in each outing. He earned a save by closing out Sunday's game, his fifth save of the season and the 118th of his eight-year career.
Romano's Blue Jays Legacy
Romano was a hometown hero during his time with the Blue Jays, selected in the 10th round of the 2014 MLB draft. He made his MLB debut in 2019 and became a key bullpen member in 2021, representing the team at the All-Star Game in 2022 and 2023. However, he struggled mightily in 2024, and the team opted not to bring him back. He signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for 2025, posting an 8.23 ERA in 49 games before being released.
Despite his recent struggles, the Rockies are betting that a change of scenery and a vote of confidence can revive Romano's career. So far, the results are promising.
