Part 2/9:

Romano, a prominent closer who demonstrated significant talent when healthy, was reportedly in focus as the Blue Jays were looking to negotiate his contract. The projected arbitration numbers floated hovering around $7.75 million, which exceeded the amount the Blue Jays hoped to offer. Compounding the scenario was the fact that the Blue Jays had attempted to negotiate a pay cut of over 30%, a move disallowed by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for tendered players. The optics of this decision are especially troubling, as the Blue Jays boast a bullpen that is desperately in need of solid arms.