Jordan Romano records third save with perfect ninth

Closer steps up in absence of injured Kirby Yates

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:52pm

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Jordan Romano pitched a perfect ninth inning to record his third save of the season, preserving a 1-0 victory for the Blue Jays over the Mariners on Saturday. Despite the perfect outing, there was some late-inning drama as Jo Adell robbed J.P. Crawford of a potential game-tying home run to lead off the ninth.

Why it matters

Romano has stepped up as the Blue Jays' closer with Kirby Yates sidelined by injury, and he has yet to allow a run or a hit while posting a 7:2 K:BB ratio in 4.2 innings this season. His strong start could allow him to hang onto the closer's role even when Yates returns.

The details

Romano struck out one batter and got a popout to close out the Mariners in the ninth inning. Despite the perfect outing, there was some late-inning drama as Jo Adell robbed J.P. Crawford of a potential game-tying home run to lead off the ninth.

  • Romano recorded his third save of the season on Saturday, April 5, 2026.

The players

Jordan Romano

The Blue Jays' closer who has stepped up in the absence of the injured Kirby Yates.

Kirby Yates

The Blue Jays' regular closer who is currently sidelined by injury.

Jo Adell

The Blue Jays outfielder who made a crucial catch to rob the Mariners of a potential game-tying home run in the ninth inning.

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What they’re saying

“Romano has been a huge boost for us with Kirby out. He's really stepped up and shown he can handle the closer's role.”

— John Schneider, Blue Jays Manager

What’s next

Yates is getting closer to a return, but Romano may hang on to the closer's role as long as he continues to pitch well.

The takeaway

Romano's strong start to the season could allow him to solidify his role as the Blue Jays' closer, even when the injured Kirby Yates returns from the IL.