Texas Rangers general manager Chris Young would love to have left-hander and World Series hero Jordan Montgomery back for the 2024 season. As the hours dwindle towards Opening Day, expect the 31-year-old to make his return to Arlington in the visitor’s dugout. Young said during an interview on 1310 The Ticket that it’s “less likely” Monty will be back for the 2024 season. The Rangers seem content with the roster as it is heading into their matchup against the Chicago Cubs to begin the season.
After spending big in back-to-back offseason, Young went for a more conservative approach following a World Series title. Texas added right-hander Tyler Mahle to the rotation as a potential No. 4 or No. 5 options. The Rangers also fortified their bullpen with the additions of veteran relievers Kirby Yates and David Robertson. It’s a strange place to be entering a new year. According to reports, Montomgery would love to ‘play in a small-market like Texas or St. Louis’ but the asking price isn’t there. The Boston Red Sox remain one of the top teams in the running to acquire the southpaw, and could be willing to make a extensive offer after newly signed right-hander Lucas Giolito suffered a partially torn UCL and a flexor strain. Acquired by St. Louis at the trade deadline, Montgomery served as the No. 2 behind Nathan Eovaldi throughout the regular season and into the playoffs. Between the Rangers and Cardinals, Montgomery posted a 3.20 ERA with a 166-to-48 strikeout-to-walk ratio, and a 1.19 WHIP in 188 2/3 innings pitched. During the postseason, Montgomery went 4-2 with a 2.90 ERA in 31 innings. Earlier this week, ESPN’s Buster Olney mentioned on an interview with ‘The Michael Kay Show’ that the Baltimore Orioles could be a team of intrigue. It’s a smaller market than Boston and has the funds to afford a high-profile pitcher. After leading the American League in wins with a 101-61 record last season, the Orioles seem ready to take off behind a young offensive corp, but still could use another veteran arm. Earlier this offseason, Baltimore acquired former NL Cy Young pitcher Corbin Burnes.
