MLB Rumors: Potential Red Sox Pitching Target Rejecting Yankees?
Jordan Montgomery, a possible fit for next season’s Red Sox rotation, spent six years with the Yankees, but the now-free-agent pitcher might be expressing zero interest in going back to New York.
Montgomery, 31, reached the mountaintop with the Rangers in 2023, helping Texas seize its first World Series in franchise history. Over a year prior, Montgomery was traded by the Yankees at the 2022 Major League Baseball trade deadline, yet New York reportedly has come back around toward the left-hander after its horrendous 82-80 playoff miss run last season.
Montgomery is the Yankees’ first pick to improve the rotation, but it’s unlikely that the two would reunite since Montgomery wants to join the Rangers when they win their first world title in 2023, according to a source familiar with the team’s thinking, as reported by Randy Miller on NJ.com on Thursday. “Montgomery grew close to his teammates in the postseason and played a significant role in Texas’ success.”
Montgomery went 10-11 as a member of the Cardinals and Rangers last season, recording a 3.20 ERA throughout 32 starts made in the regular season. When October baseball rolled around, Montgomery stepped up for Texas, going 3-1 with a 2.90 ERA, including two scoreless starts of six-plus innings — both resulting in wins.
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It’s understandable that Montgomery would desire to remain in his current position given that everything went well in Texas and that the team’s remaining core is expected to be favored for yet another deep run. Particularly considering that the Yankees’ serious offensive problems from the previous year brought New York to an all-time low.
The Rangers have already proven willing to invest, spending over $500 million, including $300 million on starting pitching alone.