Yankees and the projected $110 million Hurler are still linked; “might work out nicely”

The New York Yankees have bolstered their roster following a lackluster 82-80 performance in 2023, raising anticipation for the upcoming 2024 season as Opening Day approaches. Speculation suggests a potential reunion with left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery could further enhance their pitching rotation.

While much of the speculation has revolved around the possibility of the Yankees signing two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell, his preference for a short-term contract with opt-outs has made a deal with the team improbable. Montgomery, on the other hand, isn’t seeking such terms at this stage of his career.

According to a report by Jon Heyman of the New York Post on March 7, the 2023 World Series champions are still pursuing a long-term contract for Montgomery. FanSided’s Josh Wilson suggests that Monty’s contract preferences “could align well with New York’s interests.” Securing a lengthier deal with the southpaw in the Bronx could enable general manager Brian Cashman to mitigate potential luxury tax implications.

Projections from Spotrac anticipate a six-year, $110 million contract for Montgomery. Even if the deal were closer to Aaron Nola’s seven-year, $172 million agreement with the Philadelphia Phillies, the yearly expenses would be more manageable for the Yankees. Moreover, they wouldn’t forfeit any 2024 MLB Draft picks or international bonus pool funds since Montgomery didn’t receive a qualifying offer.

Montgomery Would Help the Yankees’ Rotation Depth

The New York Yankees’ anticipated Opening Day rotation, as outlined by FanGraphs’ Roster Resource, features Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, Marcus Stroman, Nestor Cortes, and Clarke Schmidt. While this lineup holds promise, General Manager Brian Cashman understands the risks of banking solely on best-case scenarios.

According to SNY’s Andy Martino’s report on February 5, the Yankees remain somewhat unsatisfied with their pitching upgrades and haven’t ruled out further moves before Opening Day. Rodón’s inconsistent performance during spring training, as he seeks to rebound from a challenging 2023 season, may prompt the team to explore additional options. In his 5.2 innings pitched, Rodón has conceded four runs on six hits (including three home runs), along with three walks and six strikeouts.

Bringing Jordan Montgomery back into the fold would provide stability to the Yankees’ rotation. Since 2021, Montgomery has consistently made over 30 starts per season. Over his last 524.1 innings pitched, he has maintained a solid 3.48 ERA and 1.18 WHIP, with 486 strikeouts. Moreover, Montgomery is familiar with pitching in New York, having been drafted by the Yankees in 2014 and spending parts of six seasons with the team.

Red Sox Might Opt for Other Rotation Options

For a period, it appeared that the Boston Red Sox were a probable destination for Jordan Montgomery. However, with Lucas Giolito facing a potential season-long absence in 2024, the team may now be exploring other options for bolstering their rotation. According to another report by Heyman, Boston could be considering pitchers like Michael Lorenzen or Mike Clevinger, who are noted for their ability to log significant innings.

The possibility of Montgomery signing with the Red Sox was already subject to debate, particularly given the team’s recent struggles, including three last-place finishes since 2020, including the last two seasons.

Alex Speier of the Boston Globe reported on February 13 that the Red Sox have been monitoring Montgomery’s market. However, if circumstances lead to Montgomery becoming available on a shorter-term contract, there’s a prevailing belief in the industry that he would prioritize joining a team with better prospects for success in 2024 over the Red Sox. Therefore, while not entirely ruled out, the likelihood of Montgomery joining the Red Sox seems slim.

Could the Yankees seize the opportunity to bring back their former homegrown pitcher? Doing so would not only enhance New York’s rotation but also serve as a symbolic victory over their rivals, the Red Sox.

Matt Musico, a Major League Baseball writer for Heavy.com with over a decade of experience covering the sport, is the creator of MLB Daily Dingers. His expertise has been showcased on platforms such as numberFire, MLB Trade Rumors, Bleacher Report, Elite Sports NY, and Yahoo! Sports.