Following the loss of reigning National League Cy Young winner Blake Snell, the New York Yankees have reportedly rekindled discussions with free agent southpaw Jordan Montgomery.
Jon Heyman of the New York Post recently provided updates on the Yankees’ renewed interest in Montgomery, who had previously spent over five seasons with the team.
“Initial preferences leaned towards Snell, largely due to concerns shared by the Yankees’ analytics team regarding Montgomery’s pitching style—his lack of velocity and strikeouts. Additionally, rumors circulated that Montgomery had a preference for other destinations,” Heyman stated.
“Nevertheless, circumstances have prompted both parties to reopen dialogue. While disparities exist, communication has resumed.”
Last season, the 31-year-old Montgomery recorded a 10-11 record with a 3.20 ERA (1.19 WHIP) and 166 strikeouts split between the St. Louis Cardinals and Texas Rangers. He notably thrived after joining the Rangers mid-season, boasting a 4-2 record with a 2.79 ERA (1.09 WHIP).
We had to get @GumbyNation34’s raw reaction to the Yankees trade and how unleashing his fastball has led to early domination with the Cardinals. Full episode is live! 📺🎧 pic.twitter.com/0a4lt9d4gc
— R2C2 (@R2C2) September 8, 2022
Montgomery’s contributions extended to the postseason, where he secured a 3-1 record with a 2.90 ERA, including pivotal victories against the Houston Astros in the American League Championship Series.
His tenure with the Yankees concluded following a trade to the St. Louis Cardinals in exchange for outfielder Harrison Bader.
Reflecting on his time in New York, Montgomery acknowledged the pressures associated with pitching in the iconic city.
“I always felt the weight of potentially being booed off the mound in New York,” Montgomery confessed in an interview with former Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia and broadcaster Ryan Ruocco, as reported by Justin Tasch of the New York Post.
“The Yankee uniform carries immense pressure. It’s not for everyone. While I managed decently, there were numerous factors at play. Here in St. Louis, I feel more at ease, pitching on my terms. Thankfully, the fans here have embraced me.”
Despite his departure, Montgomery left a positive mark in New York, notably achieving a 3.83 ERA in 2021 and a 3.69 ERA in 2022 prior to the trade.
With the Yankees facing a pressing need for additional starting pitchers due to Gerrit Cole’s injury absence, Montgomery could emerge as a pivotal component of the rotation.
