The MLB free-agent market has seen some significant movement in recent weeks. The latest one being the former Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell’s surprise two-year, $62 million deal with the San Francisco Giants that has left several suitors in the lurch. The reigning World Series champions, the Texas Rangers, find themselves unexpectedly losing out on both Snell and a potential reunion with Jordan Montgomery.

Now, the focus shifts squarely onto Montgomery, as heavy hitters like the Houston Astros and the New York Yankees could re-engage in the bidding war. Could Montgomery’s preference for a short-term, high-value contract entice the Rangers back into the mix?

Astros and Yankees: In need of a boost with Jordan Montgomery, with Texas on the sidelines

The loss of Blake Snell could significantly impact the Astros and the Yankees as they begin their 2024 campaign. Houston desperately needs to upgrade its starting rotation following injuries to numerous key players, including veterans Justin Verlander, José Urquidy, and Lance McCullers Jr.

They’ll need to fill that gap quickly to compete with divisional rivals like the Rangers and the league-rivals like the Toronto Blue Jays. Moreover, Montgomery presents a solid option for the Astros to shore up their rotation and stay competitive.

Similarly, the Yankees are reeling from the news of Gerrit Cole’s elbow injury, which is set to sideline him for at least one to two months, according to reputable sources. Montgomery, a familiar face with a proven track record in New York, could be the perfect short-term solution, especially with Nestor Cortes Jr. slated as the Opening Day starter.

Considering his agent, Scott Boras, stated they are “open to all sorts of ideas, short-term, long-term, flex,” to Bob Nightengale of USA Today last month, Jordan Montgomery’s desire for a short-term, high-value contract along the lines of Blake Snell’s deal could finally spark a compelling offer from the Texas Rangers.

Read More: New York Yankees to Consider Jordan Montgomery Reunion? Rangers and Red Sox’s Hesitation Give Bombers Perfect Opportunity

Although GM Chris Young had previously signaled hesitation toward a long-term commitment, Scott Boras is famous for negotiating impossible opt-outs. Snell’s deal may have been influenced by loss-of-value insurance, which protects athletes against career-ending injuries.

A short-term pact with the potential for an opt-out or multiple ones could be a win-win for both parties, allowing Montgomery to maximize earnings while giving the Rangers flexibility. And the Lone Star team has more than one reason to reconsider re-signing him.

The Dylan Cease factor

Interestingly, another development has shaken up the market while the Blake Snell predicament was unraveling itself. The Chicago White Sox appeared more than willing to finally part ways with right-handed ace Dylan Cease.

Insider Jeff Passan broke the news this Thursday that Cease has been acquired by the San Diego Padres, potentially opening up new avenues for teams still seeking pitching help. Could the Rangers’ initial reluctance toward Jordan Montgomery shift now that even Cease is off the table? As FanSided reports, “the Rangers are exploring a move for a familiar name that could turn their offseason around.”

The Texas Rangers’ starting rotation could use a boost, especially with star players like Max Scherzer and Tyler Mahle still recovering from injuries. Despite expressing uncertainty about their TV rights situation affecting potential deals, the team could finally take the plunge and bring back a key contributor to their recent World Series victory.

Read More: Amidst Blake Snell’s Astros Buzz, Will Jordan Montgomery Be the Only Scott Boras Client Unsigned on Opening Day?

As Spring Training progresses, the Jordan Montgomery sweepstakes will undoubtedly intensify. It remains to be seen whether the Astros, Yankees, or another surprise team emerges as the front-runner. For now, it can be said for certain that Montgomery’s future holds significant implications for the pitching landscape of the MLB as teams jockey for position.