J.C. Romero: out for the playoffs

Scratch another pitcher off the list of candidates to make the Phillies postseason roster. J.C. Romero, who has had a bum forearm and elbow for what seems like the entire season, will be unavailable to pitch for the Phillies in October, according to Scott Lauber of Delaware Online.

Romero, who last pitched for the Phillies on September 28th, will now put his tumultuous 2009 season behind him. As you recall, Romero was suspended for the first 50 games of the season and then managed to pitch in only 21 games for the Phils as he battled through injuries. He should be good to go by Spring Training next year.

Losing Romero leaves the Phillies with a hole in the bullpen. They would like to have a couple of lefty options in the pen, so it is possible they might keep both Scott Eyre and Sergio Escalona on the postseason roster. The Phillies could also use J.A. Happ out of the pen if he isn't the 4th starter.