Left-hand pitcher Jordan Montgomery, considered one of the top free agents in the 2024 class, has agreed to a one-year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Montgomery will play on a $25 million salary next season. His agreement with the Diamondbacks also includes a vesting option for 2025 that could be worth up to $25 million.
Montgomery is coming off his best year as a pro. He started the 2023 season with the St. Louis Cardinals, making 21 starts, which included a 3.42 ERA and 108 strikeouts, before being traded to the Texas Rangers.
With the Rangers, Montgomery improved on the already promising campaign, having a 4-2 record with a 2.79 ERA and 58 strikeouts in 11 stars. His great performances carried over to the postseason, where he went 3-1 with a 2.90 ERA and helped the Rangers win the World Series against his new team. At the end of the season, Montgomery made the All-MLB Second Team.
After entering the free agency, Montgomery reportedly hoped to get a long-term deal worth “nine figures.” However, his market never materialized and he ended up taking a deal that would allow him to pursue a better contract in 2025 if he has another strong year.
