Angels quickly move on from reliever Jordan Romano

The Los Angeles Angels have quickly moved on from a reclamation project.

The Angels announced on Sunday that reliever Jordan Romano was designated for assignment amid a flurry of roster moves. Pitcher Joey Lucchesi will take his spot on the roster.

Romano had been one of the best closers in baseball between 2021 and 2023. He was a two-time All-Star, posting a 2.37 ERA and a 1.091 WHiP over his 186 innings, notching 95 saves while striking out 230 batters with 70 walks. However, elbow injuries have sapped his effectiveness, derailing his career.

Los Angeles Angels cut bait as Jordan Romano's lottery ticket busts

Romano was particularly dreadful for the Phillies in 2025 despite a run as their closer in June. He posted an 8.23 ERA and a 1.453 WHiP over his 42.2 innings, recording eight saves while striking out 47 batters with 17 walks. The Angels gave Romano a one-year, $2 million contract despite those struggles, hoping that he could return to form.

That gamble looked like it would pay off over Romano's first six appearances. He did not allow a run or a hit over his first five innings, walking two batters with seven strikeouts while recording four saves. The wheels quickly fell off as he allowed nine runs on 11 hits and four walks over his last three innings, covering five appearances, blowing a pair of saves and taking the loss in both games.

Romano may get another opportunity, although it is unlikely that he would be able to find a role in a major league bullpen. If he does get that chance, it will not be with the Angels.