Jordan Montgomery, the pitcher who helped the Texas Rangers win the 2023 World Series, has signed a one-year, $25 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks just two days before MLB Opening Day. The contract includes a player option for the following season with escalating salaries based on the number of starts he makes. Montgomery, represented by Scott Boras, is one of several players who settled for short-term contracts with options during the offseason. The 31-year-old left-hander adds depth to the Diamondbacks’ starting rotation, especially with Eduardo Rodriguez sidelined due to injury.
Montgomery’s 2023 season started with the St. Louis Cardinals before he was traded to the Rangers, where he continued to excel on the mound. With both teams, he utilized his pinpoint location and effective fastball-curveball combination to rack up a career-high 166 strikeouts. His career post-Tommy John surgery in 2019 has seen a steady improvement, with 2021 showing his durability with 30 starts and a 3.83 ERA over 157.1 innings. The Diamondbacks are hoping Montgomery’s success will help bolster their pitching staff in the competitive NL West division, where they face tough opponents like the star-studded Los Angeles Dodgers.
The addition of Montgomery to the Diamondbacks’ rotation strengthens a young core that includes Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Brandon Pfaadt. Given the demanding nature of the NL West, having reliable pitching is crucial for the team’s success. Montgomery’s previous success in high-pressure situations, such as the postseason run with the Rangers, makes him a valuable asset for the Diamondbacks as they aim to compete in a tough division. His ability to adapt and perform well in different environments bodes well for his potential impact in Arizona.
Montgomery’s signing with the Diamondbacks comes after a lengthy free agency period in which he explored various options before settling on a one-year deal. The contract structure with escalating salaries based on performance incentives reflects the trend seen with other players like Cody Bellinger, Blake Snell, and Matt Chapman who signed similar short-term contracts. Despite initially starting the 2023 season with the Rangers, Montgomery’s move to the Diamondbacks provides him with a new challenge and opportunity to contribute to a team with potential for success in a competitive division.
The Diamondbacks’ need for starting pitching became more urgent after Eduardo Rodriguez’s injury, making Montgomery’s arrival even more timely. His experience and track record of success in crucial moments could prove invaluable for the team as they look to compete in a challenging division. The opportunity to join a promising rotation and make an impact on a team with postseason aspirations likely factored into Montgomery’s decision to sign with the Diamondbacks. His presence adds depth and talent to a pitching staff that will face formidable opponents throughout the season.
Overall, Jordan Montgomery’s signing with the Arizona Diamondbacks brings a seasoned and reliable arm to their rotation, providing stability and experience in a competitive division. His success post-Tommy John surgery, combined with his recent postseason experience, make him a valuable addition to a team looking to make a push for the playoffs. Montgomery’s ability to consistently deliver quality starts and strikeouts gives the Diamondbacks a significant boost as they navigate a challenging schedule against formidable opponents. With a strong core of young pitchers, including Montgomery, the Diamondbacks are well-positioned to make a run at the postseason and compete in a tough NL West division.
