Jordan Montgomery, who helped the Texas Rangers win the 2023 World Series, has signed a one-year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks just two days before MLB Opening Day. The contract is worth $25 million, with potential for more depending on starts. Montgomery, a Scott Boras client, is joining a list of players who settled for short-term contracts with options this offseason. The move comes after Arizona starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez suffered a lat strain, opening up a spot in the rotation for Montgomery.
The 31-year-old left-hander had a successful 2023 season split between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Rangers. He was traded to Texas mid-season and finished with impressive numbers, including a 2.79 ERA in 11 starts. Montgomery’s career has been strong post-Tommy John surgery in 2019, which sidelined him after just two starts with the New York Yankees. In 2021, he made 30 starts and posted a 3.83 ERA, showcasing his durability and effectiveness on the mound. His performance continued in 2023 as he proved to be a valuable asset for the Rangers during their championship run.
Montgomery’s ability to locate his fastball and curveball led to a career-high 166 strikeouts in 2023. This skill, combined with his post-surgery success, makes him an attractive addition to the Diamondbacks’ pitching staff. Arizona, competing in a tough NL West division, was in need of additional arms to bolster their rotation. Montgomery will join a young and talented group of starters, including Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Brandon Pfaadt, as the D-Backs aim to compete against powerhouse teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Arizona’s acquisition of Montgomery is part of a trend in MLB, with Boras clients like Cody Bellinger, Blake Snell, and Matt Chapman also signing short-term contracts with options this offseason. Montgomery’s deal includes performance-based incentives that could increase his salary in future seasons. The lefty pitcher’s track record of success post-surgery, combined with his recent strong performances, made him an attractive target for the Diamondbacks as they look to improve their team and remain competitive in the challenging NL West.
Despite a long and drawn-out free agency period, Jordan Montgomery found a new home with the Diamondbacks just before the start of the 2024 season. His signing adds depth and experience to Arizona’s pitching staff, providing a valuable left-handed arm to complement their existing rotation. Montgomery’s performance in 2023, which included a World Series victory with the Rangers, showcases his ability to perform under pressure and contribute to a winning team. With an incentive-laden contract and potential for increased earnings based on performance, Montgomery has the opportunity to make a significant impact on the Diamondbacks’ success in the upcoming season.
In joining the Diamondbacks, Montgomery will have the opportunity to pitch in a competitive NL West division that features formidable opponents like the Los Angeles Dodgers. Arizona was in need of additional starting pitching after Eduardo Rodriguez’s injury, making Montgomery’s arrival even more crucial for the team’s success. With a history of success post-Tommy John surgery and recent strong performances, Montgomery brings a valuable skill set to the D-Backs’ rotation. As he joins a talented group of young pitchers in Arizona, Montgomery’s experience and track record of success will be essential as the team looks to compete with the best in the league.
