The Toronto Blue Jays made the shocking decision Friday night not to tender longtime closer Jordan Romano after six seasons. Expected to earn nearly $8 million in arbitration, the Jays decided there were better ways to use their resources this offseason.

Now, Toronto could bring him back later this offseason at a lower number, but that has to be seen as the offseason unfolds.

Lifetime, Romano is 20-17 with a 2.90 ERA. He saved 105 games for the Jays and made two All-Star teams. He was also a part of playoff teams in 2020, 2022 and 2023. As a Canadian native, he was also someone the Jays could always support.

When news of his non-tendering broke, Jays fans on “X” reacted sadly, as one would expect about a player who meant so much:

In contrast, success came during the difficult 2024 season for Romano, who missed much of the year with elbow issues. When he did pitch, he was ineffective, pitching to a 6.59 ERA. He’ll make a great low-cost prospect this offseason, and maybe Toronto will be the place to pick him up.

Now the Jays have a closer opening, which will spark a conversation about who they could sign on the trade market or in free agency. Although they have been linked to several top starting pitchers and Juan Soto, they have yet to be linked to late-inning relievers with any seriousness.

Additionally, they could also opt to move Yariel Rodriguez into a bullpen role after signing him to a long-term deal last offseason.

THE Blue Jays finished last in the American League East with a 74-88 record.

Continue to follow our Fastball On SI coverage on social media by liking us on Facebook and by following us on Twitter @FastballFN.