Free agent Jordan Montgomery is a coveted player this offseason. While his former team the New York Yankees are reportedly keen on a reunion, there is significant interest from the Texas Rangers too. But Jon Heyman suggests that the 2023 World Series winner would prefer Texas over New York.
Apart from the Yankees and the Rangers, Montgomery’s agent has held discussions with the Boston Red Sox. Reports also say that his former team the St. Louis Cardinals want him back.
Montgomery to ditch the Yankees for the Rangers
Heyman suggested that ruling out Texas might not be wise, implying that the player would likely welcome a return to the team. He highlighted the team’s championship history and Montgomery’s past success there, indicating that both sides might be interested in a reunion. The insider concluded that Texas could be a good fit for the player.
The synergy between Montgomery and the Texas Rangers was seamless following the trade with St. Louis before the deadline. He swiftly became a stabilizing presence in the Rangers’ rotation and demonstrated peak performance when it mattered most. In his last four regular-season starts, he allowed only two earned runs over 27 innings.
During the postseason, Montgomery excelled with seven shutout innings against the Tampa Bay Rays and pivotal wins in the ALCS over the Houston Astros, concluding with a 3-1 record and a 2.90 ERA in 31 innings. His regular-season performance with Texas showcased a 4-2 record and a 2.79 ERA in 11 starts.
Anticipating a contract exceeding $100 million for Montgomery, the Rangers, known for their recent aggressive spending, are likely to pursue him actively, especially with their commitment to defending a World Series title. The Rangers’ willingness to invest in top-tier free agents like Shohei Ohtani and Josh Hader aligns with the logic of pursuing the pitcher.
Why Texas is suitable for him
Jon Heyman suggests that a return to the Yankees or Cardinals is “less likely” for Montgomery. He acknowledged the Texas team’s capability and success in handling free agency, expressing confidence in their ability to make a move for him.
Despite having five pitchers who each started at least 20 games in the previous season – Max Scherzer, Nathan Eovaldi, Jon Gray, Dane Dunning, and Andrew Heaney – the Texas Rangers, under the guidance of manager Bruce Bochy, would be inclined to accommodate Montgomery in the rotation.
Recognizing Montgomery’s significant contribution, the Rangers acknowledge that he played a pivotal role in their championship run and would continue to be an essential asset to their pitching staff.
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Surprised you didn’t mention Texas = no state tax.