The Phillies declined today to pick up the $4.5 million option on J.C. Romero, who has become a free agent. Romero may return on a lesser deal but his departure is more likely. The lefty reliever, he of the beautiful hair, was key to the Phillies success in both 2007 and 2008, but since serving a suspension, warranted or not, for PED use, he was not the same. He also battled injuries and finally had surgery this off-season. Perhaps he will regain his form elsewhere.
Thus, the first shoe drops. Will Antonio Bastardo step up and take the job? He's got the talent. Does he have the moxie?
