Blue Jays Ross Atkins speaks on former closer Jordan Romano
The Blue Jays decided to non-tender Romano as he was projected to make $7.75 million next season which given how his 2024 season went combined with his injury issues seemed like too much money for the Blue Jays.
The non-tender move saved the team a projected salary of US$7.75-million and made him a free agent. -Strong
Atkins spoke to reporters about the Romano situation stating that it was a tough call to make when they decided to non-tender him but they will be pursuing him in free agency and are hopeful they will be able to bring him back.
«It was a very difficult decision,» Atkins said. «On a personal level, how much he's meant to this city, country, team, what he's accomplished. So very difficult for us.
«From a business standpoint, we have to operate as one. We remain interested in him and will be heavily pursuing his return and hope that's a potential reality.»
These comments by Atkins make it clear that the issue with Romano is that they did not believe that he was worth $7.75 million and are hoping to sign him for less in free agency.
The Blue Jays general manager also stated in the interview that the team has no concerns regarding Romano's injury and they believe that he will make a full recovery by next season which is why they are pursuing him.
Non-tendering Jordan Romano was a «very difficult» decision, according to Ross Atkins, who says Blue Jays remain interested in their longtime closer and are «heavily pursuing» a reunion.