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What each Cardinal pitcher has to prove during the final stretch
JoJo Romero
JoJo Romero has had one heck of a 2023 season. After being acquired in a low-profile deal at the 2022 trade deadline, Romero secured a spot in the bullpen this season. Seen as a depth arm just several months ago, Romero briefly occupied the closer role before going down with an injury in early September. His ascension to relevance is critical for a Cardinals team that is actively searching for capable relievers. Romero will likely enter 2024 as the team's top lefty. He has an outside shot at closing games, though the presence of Helsley likely relegates Romero to a supporting role.
JoJo Romero's been one of baseball's best relievers since being recalled on 7/4:
— Adam Akbani (@AdamAkbani) September 5, 2023
-29.0 IP
-30.8 K%
-4.3 BB%
-1.3 fWAR (leads all MLB relievers)
He's just been placed on the 15-day IL, but his emergence gives Marmol another premium bullpen option for 2024#STLCards pic.twitter.com/eIfaHSM2rj
Romero doesn't have much to prove in 2023, even if he returns before the end of the season. In the event that he does pitch again, he just has to continue doing what he's been doing. He's already proven to Cardinals fans that he was a steal at the deadline, and now he's proving that he's capable of occupying a high-leverage role. Entering 2024, he will be expected to produce high-quality innings. It's truly been remarkable to watch!