Markham’s Jordan Romano Seals Opening Day Win for Angels with First Save
27 March 2026 | Los Angeles, California
LOS ANGELES – Canadian reliever Jordan Romano began his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels in dramatic fashion, pitching a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save in a 3-0 victory over the Houston Astros on Opening Day, 26 March 2026.
The 32-year-old right-hander from Markham, Ontario, entered the game in the bottom of the ninth with a three-run lead. He recorded one strikeout—fanning Nick Allen after an ABS Challenge by the Astros—and issued one walk before securing the final out. The performance marked his first save in an Angels uniform after signing a one-year deal with the club this past offseason.
Romano’s opportunity arose due to injuries in the Angels’ bullpen. Primary closer candidate Kirby Yates (knee) was placed on the 15-day injured list just days before Opening Day, and key setup man Robert Stephenson is on the 60-day IL. This has thrust Romano into the mix for high-leverage innings, potentially as the primary closer, to start the season.
“It’s a great way to start,” Romano was quoted post-game. “The guys played great, and I just wanted to go out there and throw strikes. It feels good to contribute right away.”
A New Chapter in Anaheim
Romano, a former All-Star closer for the Toronto Blue Jays (2021-2023), is looking to rediscover the form that saw him record 95 saves over three seasons. His past two campaigns were marred by inconsistency and injury, managing only eight saves in 2025. The Angels signed him to a low-risk, one-year contract reportedly worth $2 million USD (approximately $2.7 million CAD), betting on a rebound.
His career numbers remain solid: a 3.72 ERA, 333 strikeouts, and 22 wins over 281 major league appearances. Standing 6’5″ and 210 lbs, the Oral Roberts University alum was originally drafted by the Blue Jays in the 10th round of the 2014 MLB draft.
Canadian Content on Display
Romano was one of several Canadians on 2026 Opening Day rosters. His performance was a bright spot for Canadian baseball fans, who are hopeful he can re-establish himself as one of the league’s premier late-inning arms.
The Angels continue their opening series against the Astros today. Manager Ron Washington indicated the bullpen usage would remain fluid, but Romano’s successful debut puts him in the driver’s seat for future save opportunities.
Stat Line (26 March 2026): 1.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K, 1 SV.
Career (as of 27 March 2026): 281 G, 22-21, 3.72 ERA, 273.1 IP, 333 K, 1.19 WHIP.