With the first full week of Grapefruit League games underway, roster battles and bullpen decisions are typically hot topics of discussion for the Boston Red Sox. However, the focus has shifted to a player who is not even on the roster: free-agent left-hander Jordan Montgomery.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Red Sox recently had a Zoom call with Montgomery and his agent, Scott Boras. This news comes on the heels of Cody Bellinger, another Boras client, signing a below-market-value deal with the Chicago Cubs. Based on these developments, it is reasonable to assume that Montgomery’s free agency decision will be made soon.
Red Sox manager Alex Cora confirmed the Zoom call with Montgomery but did not provide specifics. He acknowledged that the team has been in touch with many players throughout the offseason, and while the call with Montgomery occurred a while ago, it is worth noting that Cora was in Miami at the time for the Caribbean Series.
The Red Sox, despite their decent performance this spring, still have a clear need in their rotation. Although Lucas Giolito has been impressive, adding a starter like Montgomery might further strengthen their chances of contention. Montgomery has a track record of success, posting a 3.20 ERA over 32 starts last season for the St. Louis Cardinals and Texas Rangers.
Additionally, Montgomery’s durability, having thrown over 157 innings in each of the last three seasons, adds to his appeal. He has valuable experience in the American League East from his time with the Yankees, and his wife is currently a dermatology resident in the Boston area.
While the Red Sox have an obvious opportunity to improve their rotation by signing Montgomery, they seem reluctant to make it happen. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has mentioned the importance of balancing short-term and long-term goals, but adding Montgomery to the roster would not jeopardize the team’s future. With the payroll currently below the luxury tax threshold, there is room to accommodate Montgomery’s signing.
Breslow, during a radio broadcast of a game, admitted that he is uncertain regarding the impact of Bellinger’s signing on the market. However, he emphasized that the team is open to exploring all opportunities to improve. Breslow also mentioned the possibility of trading players on expiring contracts, such as Chris Sale and Alex Verdugo, as a way to impact the team both in the present and future.
As the wait for Montgomery’s decision continues, there is a growing concern that he may not have a proper build-up this spring. While he has likely been working out on his own, the absence of organized game action adds another layer of uncertainty.
Although it is still early in February, time is ticking, and it would be beneficial for both sides to reach a deal sooner rather than later. The question remains as to whether Montgomery will ultimately sign with the Red Sox or explore other options.
In conclusion, the potential addition of Jordan Montgomery to the Boston Red Sox’s rotation represents a significant opportunity for the team. While they have shown interest in the left-hander, their reluctance to make a deal raises questions. With a clear need in their rotation, Montgomery’s proven track record and durability make him a valuable asset. It remains to be seen whether the Red Sox will seize this opportunity or let it slip away.
