RAYS ADD VETERAN RELIEVER ROMO
The Tampa Bay Rays acquired pitcher Sergio Romo from the Los Angeles Dodgers for cash considerations or a player to be named later.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
Romo was a dominant closer as recently as a few seasons back, and his very affordable contract (the prorated amount of $3 million for the rest of this season) can come off the books following this season (when Romo hits free agency). He is struggling through his worst season in the majors--with an unsightly 6.12 ERA--but Romo was most hittable in April, so he may be rounding into form. The Rays are still contending for a playoff spot in the AL East, so obviously there is hope Romo can help Tampa Bay down the stretch.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers designated Romo for assignment recently, so this deal is not at all surprising. He simply did not work out as planned in Los Angeles, so the Dodgers saved a bit of cash by moving on and moving his salary. At no time did Romo display dominance pitching in the late innings for the Dodgers that he had for several seasons with the San Francisco Giants.
Fantasy impact
The Rays don't have many lights-out setup men behind dependable closer Alex Colome, so perhaps Romo can push for some holds the rest of the way. He has an uphill climb to reclaim his former late-inning mojo, but Romo is a proven veteran (so is radar-worthy in formats featuring holds). There is no fantasy impact on the Dodgers side of the swap.
