Three potential landing spots for Jordan Montgomery
Jordan Montgomery has made a name for himself over the past two years.
Montgomery had begun to establish himself as one of the better pitchers in the game after being traded to the Cardinals. However, he truly broke out during the Rangers' run to the World Series. While the Yankees did not trust him to pitch in the playoffs, he was a key part of the Rangers' success.
Montgomery had a strong season even without his postseason performance. His 10-11 record belied his 3.20 ERA and 1.193 WHiP over 188.2 innings between the Cardinals and Rangers, striking out 166 batters with 48 walks. He will receive a handsome contract - the question is where he will sign.
Despite being one of the top free agents, Jordan Montgomery is still unsigned. Here are three potential landing spots.
Texas Rangers
Expectations are that Montgomery will return to the Rangers. Randy Miller from NJ.com reported that Montgomery loved his time in Texas and wants to return. The Rangers want him back. As an added bonus, Montgomery also has been offered free barbeque for life if he returns to Texas. The Rangers also have holes in the rotation as Max Scherzer, Jacob deGrom, and Tyler Mahle are expected to begin the 2024 season on the Injured List. The problem is that the Rangers do not know what their payroll situation is because of questions about broadcasting revenue. To that end, Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News said that he does not feel a reunion will happen. A return to the Rangers makes sense, but financial considerations might tank the deal.
New York Yankees
The Yankees are looking to make up for their decision to trade Montgomery to the Cardinals at the 2022 deadline. Miller also reported that Montgomery was the Yankees' first choice to shore up their rotation. Marcus Stroman has since signed in New York but that does not mean the Yankees are done. Carlos Rodon and Nestor Cortes are question marks after their injury-plagued 2023 campaigns. Meanwhile, the Orioles acquired Corbin Burnes to front their rotation. The Yankees need another arm - Montgomery could be that piece.
Boston Red Sox
One has to wonder what the Red Sox are doing. They have sent mixed messages all offseason regarding their willingness to spend. However, the Red Sox recently brought Theo Epstein back as a senior advisor and part owner of the team. The belief is that he will make John Henry and the rest of the owners step out of their comfort zones when it comes to investing in the team. Jon Morosi speculated that the Red Sox could sign Montgomery if they find a taker for Kenley Jansen. With Epstein back on board, trading Jansen may no longer be a prerequisite.
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