The Arizona Diamondbacks have reached a significant agreement with pitcher Jordan Montgomery, finalizing a $25 million, one-year contract with a vesting option for 2025. The deal, which is subject to a successful physical, includes various performance-based incentives for Montgomery.
If Montgomery makes at least 10 starts this season, the option would become guaranteed at $20 million, with the left-hander also gaining the right to opt out. The option price would increase to $22.5 million with 18 starts and to $25 million with 23 starts, a milestone he has achieved in the past three seasons.
Montgomery, who played a crucial role in Texas' World Series victory last year, will bolster the Diamondbacks' rotation as they gear up for the upcoming season. He is expected to slot in as the No. 3 or No. 4 starter alongside Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Eduardo Rodríguez, who signed a four-year, $80 million contract earlier in the offseason.
The 31-year-old lefty, who became a free agent for the first time after winning the World Series, boasts a career record of 38-34 with a 3.68 ERA in 140 starts and one relief appearance with the New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, and Rangers.
Montgomery's impressive performance last season, where he went 10-11 with a 3.20 ERA in 32 regular-season starts and excelled in the postseason, made him a sought-after player in the free-agent market. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, including standout performances in the playoffs, further solidified his value as a top-tier pitcher.
Having been selected by the New York Yankees in the fourth round of the 2014 amateur draft, Montgomery made his MLB debut in 2017 and has since established himself as a reliable starter. Despite facing setbacks due to an elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery, Montgomery has shown resilience and determination in his journey to becoming a key player in the league.
The Diamondbacks' acquisition of Montgomery signifies their commitment to strengthening their pitching staff and enhancing their competitiveness in the upcoming season. With Montgomery's proven track record and postseason success, he is poised to make a significant impact on the team's performance and contribute to their pursuit of success in the National League.
