The National League West has seen multiple big-name free agent signings this offseason, with the Arizona Diamondbacks reportedly agreeing to terms with left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery. The deal, reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, is pending a physical and is worth $25 million in 2024 with a vesting option for a second year. Montgomery, who helped the Texas Rangers win the World Series last fall, will have to make 10 starts this season to trigger the second year of his contract. His addition to the Diamondbacks comes at a critical time, as their projected No. 3 starter Eduardo Rodriguez will be sidelined at the beginning of the season with an injury.
Jordan Montgomery had a successful postseason last year, finishing with a 3-1 record and an ERA of 2.90 across six appearances. Overall in the regular season, he went 10-11 with a 3.20 ERA, striking out 166 batters and walking 48 across 188 2/3 innings. The 30-year-old pitcher has had a solid career in the major leagues, pitching for four different teams since being traded from the New York Yankees in 2022. He was picked by the Yankees in the fourth round of the 2014 draft and has accumulated 705 strikeouts in 755 innings over seven big league seasons.
Montgomery will slot into the Diamondbacks’ rotation as their No. 2 starter behind ace Zac Gallen, filling in for the injured Eduardo Rodriguez. This gives the team a starting rotation that can compete with the likes of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Francisco Giants. The Dodgers and Giants made significant pitching acquisitions this offseason, signing players like Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Clayton Kershaw, and Blake Snell. With Montgomery on board, the Diamondbacks are poised to be strong contenders in the division.
The left-handed pitcher had a memorable World Series appearance against the Diamondbacks last year, giving up four earned runs on nine hits over six innings. Despite the rough outing, the Diamondbacks saw something in Montgomery that compelled them to sign him this offseason. His experience and success in the postseason likely played a role in the Diamondbacks’ decision to add him to their rotation. With Montgomery in the mix, the Diamondbacks are ready to make a push for the playoffs in the upcoming season.
Montgomery’s signing with the Diamondbacks brings stability and depth to their pitching staff, which will be crucial in a competitive NL West. His ability to eat innings and deliver solid performances will be key for the team as they look to make a postseason run. With Montgomery joining their rotation, the Diamondbacks now have a formidable group of pitchers that can go toe-to-toe with the best in the division. The team’s pitching depth and quality arms will be essential in their quest for success in the upcoming season.
