Attention Yankees folks! Remember Jordan Montgomery? The talented southpaw whom the New York Yankees sent off to St. Louis in 2022? Well, it seems like there’s love blooming again in the Bronx. There’s something brewing between the Yanks and Montgomery reportedly. But will this reunion be a good idea despite not being “each other’s first choices”? 

The Yankees were heavily linked to flamethrowing lefty Blake Snell, but he opted for the California sunshine and a 2-year deal with the San Francisco Giants. On one hand Snell boasts elite stuff, on the other questioned his fit for the pressure cooker of New York. Amid this situation entered Montgomery, the former Yankee with a chip on his shoulder and a proud bearer of the World Series ring with the Texas Rangers. 

So, Why Jordan  Montgomery? Here’s the Case For the Lefty 

Durability –  Montgomery’s history with health has been clean. A sign that is welcome in the Yankees rotation that has been frequently plagued with injury stints. 

Age Advantage – Monty is 31 years old. At this age, he offers multiple years of visible dominance compared to other veterans of the same tier.

Postseason Hero – Let’s shift our focus from the regular season for a minute, shall we?  Montgomery thrives under the bright lights. That’s a confidence that the Yankees need contrary to the immediate intimidation players feel in the Bronx

Tax-Friendly Deal – Having ‘Gumby’ on board won’t dig a deep hole in their pockets compared to certain other options. With that, the Yankees will be kept under the luxury tax threshold.

No Draft Pick Loss – Signing Montgomery wouldn’t cost the Yankees any valuable draft capital.

However, it is important to remember that he embodies the toughness of New York. Then, he has repeatedly excelled in pinstripes before, and after his departure. In fact he even (in)famously called the Yankees out for doubting him. Now, the tables have turned and the Yanks might need him again. Goodbye, pride and ego.

Whatever the situation may be, one needs to do what needs to be done. Both sides are well aware of the glaring hole in the Yankees’ starting rotation. Though their initial preferences may have been elsewhere, the current free agency landscape has pushed them back to the table. Talks are going on yet there is no definitive conclusion on a contract. “A gap exists, but at least they’re talking”.

It’s simple and straightforward from here onward. Monty needs a team for 2024 and the Yankees need to cover the gap in their rotation. The only way both will work out is if they come together to address each other’s needs. But let’s look at this situation from an outside perspective. 

Read More : Yankees and Astros to Target Jordan Montgomery? Blake Snell Deal Impacts World Series Hero’s Market

Where Does Montgomery Stand In His Free Agency Right Now?

The team on this World Series winner’s side is aiming for a deal similar to Aaron Nola’s pricey $172 million contract. Here’s an argument to make – Montgomery’s recent performance has been extremely superior. But the market eventually valued Nola more. 

The Rangers on the other hand had Montgomery by their side as they enjoyed a World Series run with his help. A natural fit, if you may. But the ownership has not made any serious offer yet to have him despite team officials pushing for him. Moreover, free agency, this time has been a sluggish affair except for a few spikes of excitement once in a while. 

Read More : Astros Shut Down Jordan Montgomery Rumors, Other Pitching Options in Sight?

But it’s always easier said than done. Will Montgomery follow the same path as the other Scott Boras clients? If he does, will he find happiness back in the Bronx? One must wait and watch.