Philadelphia has come to terms with left handed pitcher J.C. Romero after declining his $4.5 million dollar option two months ago. The Phillies earlier this month had an apparent deal on the table with Dennys Reyes. However, it is believed to have fallen through when doctors had questions about Reyes' health.
Romero was limited to 36.2 IP in 60 appearances because of elbow problems in 2010. In addition, control problems once again continued to plague him. He struck out 28 batters (6.87 K/9) while walking 29 (7.12 BB/9). He still is able to induce batters into hitting ground balls (61% GB/12% LD/ 26%FB), and is effective against left-handed hitters holding them to a .174/.278/.251 batting line over the last three seasons.
At this stage of his career, however, the Phillies will have to contend with his wildness. He ended last season with a respectable 3.68 ERA. But because of walks, he posted a considerably higher 4.99 xERA and an ugly 1.61 WHIP. These are numbers that will find him on many fantasy waiver wires this coming year, even in leagues which count holds.
