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O's Sign 35 Year-Old Lefty Romero, Add Depth
The Baltimore Orioles have signed left-handed pitcher J.C. Romero to a minor league deal, according to Eduardo A. Encina of the Baltimore Sun:
The #Orioles announce they've agreed to terms with LHP J.C. Romero on minor-league deal. Will report to Triple-A Norfolk.
— Eduardo A. Encina (@EddieInTheYard) May 24, 2012
Romero, 35, is a fourteen-year vet and has been with six clubs, including seven seasons with the Twins, five with the Phillies, and season-or-less stints with the Rockies, Cardinals, Red Sox, and Angels. He maintains a career 4.15 ERA while striking out 7.2 and walking 5.1 every nine innings.
Britt Ghiroli notes that Romero adds depth:
Orioles executive vice president of baseball operations Dan Duquette said Tuesday that the club was still actively seeking ways to upgrade and add depth to the pitching staff, and Romero fills a need being a lefty reliever –right now they can stash below — to go with Zach Phillips. The O’s bullpen currently has two lefties in Troy Patton and Dana Eveland.
Romero pitched eight innings for the Cardinals this season, giving up fourteen hits, two walks, and three home runs while striking out five. He sits at a 10.13 ERA on the season.