Tommy Romero

Romero posted strong numbers in the lower levels of the minors in 2018 and 2019, but he was seen as a fringe prospect at the time. Fast forward to 2021 and he put up some of the most impressive statistics of any pitching prospect in the upper levels of the minors. The 6-foot-2 righty had a 145:31 K:BB in 110.1 innings across Double-A and Triple-A. He finished the year on a roll, logging a 0.99 ERA, 0.68 WHIP and 58:12 K:BB in 45.1 innings over his final eight starts at Triple-A. Romero's best pitch is a prototypical modern four-seamer that has excellent carry and misses bats at the top of the zone. He mixes in a curveball and changeup that play well off the fastball. Tampa Bay added him to the 40-man roster this offseason, and he should play a role in the majors at some point this year. While Romero's stuff isn't quite as good as his minor-league numbers might suggest, he could make it as a No. 4 starter who turns a lineup over twice. If he ever follows an opener, that would only increase his chances of getting wins.