Amid the final countdown to Opening Day, the New York Yankees have reignited discussions with left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery.
While there’s renewed communication between the two parties, there remains a gap between Montgomery’s contract demands and the Yankees’ comfort level.
Montgomery stands as one of the most prominent free agents still available on the market.
Despite the flurry of offseason activity, players like J.D. Martinez, another client represented by the Boras Corporation, have yet to find a new home.
However, Montgomery represents the last remaining member of the top tier of free agents, including Cody Bellinger, Matt Chapman, and Blake Snell, to secure a deal.
Yankees, Jordan Montgomery Have Reopened Discussions https://t.co/MFSvX2jfGo pic.twitter.com/E9ggbP6jTR
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) March 21, 2024
The 31-year-old Montgomery has reportedly been seeking a long-term contract, with previous demands reportedly reaching up to a seven-year pact.
However, as the season opener approaches, the likelihood of such a deal seems increasingly remote.
The Yankees, like many other teams, are operating under financial constraints imposed by the luxury tax, making them cautious about committing to significant long-term contracts.
Montgomery’s potential reluctance to accept a shorter-term deal may stem from concerns over future eligibility for the qualifying offer.
Unlike his counterparts who declined the qualifying offer in previous seasons, Montgomery was ineligible to receive the offer due to a midseason trade from the Cardinals to the Rangers in 2023.
This has left him unencumbered by draft compensation, giving him greater flexibility in his negotiations.
Despite the Yankees’ need to shore up their pitching rotation, they have thus far been hesitant to make significant financial commitments due to concerns about the luxury tax.
With ace Gerrit Cole sidelined until May or June with elbow inflammation, the team’s rotation has been thrown into uncertainty.
Nestor Cortes is set to take the mound on Opening Day for the Yankees, followed by Carlos Rodón, Marcus Stroman, and Clarke Schmidt.
However, the fifth spot in the rotation remains up for grabs, with options including Luke Weaver and several promising young pitchers.
Despite some previous friction between Montgomery and the Yankees’ front office, there appears to be a potential fit for his return to the team.
Montgomery, who has been a durable and reliable pitcher since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2018, could provide valuable depth to the Yankees’ rotation.
While other teams have shown interest in Montgomery, including the Red Sox and Mets, it remains to be seen whether any will be willing to meet his contract demands at this stage of the offseason.
