MLB.com is reporting that the Phillies will likely decline pitcher J.C. Romero's 4.5 million dollar club option for next season. Romero compiled a 2.59 ERA over four seasons with the Phillies, but missed time due to a 50-game drug suspension as well as injuries.
Romero has walked more batters than he has struck out over the past two seasons, and his control has never been superb with the Phillies.
The Phillies will likely turn to Antonio Bastardo next season, who in his first full season posted a 4.34 ERA and K/BB ratio of 26/9. Relying too much on Bastardo is certainly a risk for next season, but he is cheaper financially and certainly has upside.
While Bastardo posted a 2.84 ERA in 9 appearances after the All-Star Break, he also posted a 2.05 WHIP and gave up 13 hits. However, his control was perfect as he did not surrender a single walk or home run.