Diamondbacks Assess Trade Options for Struggling Pitcher Jordan Montgomery

PHOENIX, Ariz. — As the Arizona Diamondbacks approach Opening Day, left-hander Jordan Montgomery remains on the team despite being a logical trade candidate. Reports indicate the Diamondbacks are willing to negotiate, having asked at least one club to take on $13 million of Montgomery’s contract for the upcoming season.

Talks surrounding Montgomery intensified last week as teams showed interest in boosting their pitching depth. However, the Diamondbacks’ asking price could hinder potential deals. With the starting pitching market cooling from an aggressive winter, similar pitchers have signed one-year contracts between $4.25 million and $5.25 million, making the $13 million figure steep for many franchises.

Montgomery has performed well in prior seasons, logging 94 starts from 2021 to 2023 with a 3.48 earned run average over 524.1 innings. He was instrumental in the Texas Rangers‘ 2023 World Series triumph. Despite his strong track record, Montgomery’s performance in 2024 has raised concerns. He recorded a 6.23 ERA over 117 innings, leading to criticism from owner Ken Kendrick, who took responsibility for supporting Montgomery’s signing.

The Diamondbacks secured a one-year, $25 million contract with a vesting player option for 2025 for Montgomery, which activated at 18 starts last season. The option valued at $20 million further complicates trade talks, as the Diamondbacks need to balance salary cap constraints with Montgomery’s unsteady performance.

As roster decisions must be finalized before Opening Day, various teams are exploring trades while keeping an eye on injuries that typically emerge in the season. Montgomery’s future role with the Diamondbacks remains uncertain; reports suggest he could begin the season as a long reliever behind a rotation featuring talented arms like Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.

“We’re open to discussing various options,” said general manager Mike Hazen during a recent press conference. “Jordan is an integral part of our roster, and we want to ensure he has the chance to rebuild his value.” Some analysts believe the Diamondbacks may need to consider adding prospects to sweeten any trade offer, given the contract demands.

While teams analyze their pitching depth, the likelihood of Montgomery being traded depends on his performance by the midseason deadline. With several months to build value, Montgomery’s situation could evolve, particularly with Arizona’s pitching staff having its ups and downs.

On social media, fans have voiced mixed opinions regarding Montgomery’s trade value. Some argue he must demonstrate improvement to fetch a favorable return, while others believe the Diamondbacks could risk further losses by moving him too early.

In the interim, Montgomery’s focus is on proving he can contribute effectively whether as a starter or reliever. With the conclusion of Cactus League play approaching, he has a pivotal opportunity to showcase his skills and potentially alter the dynamics of trade scenarios leading into the season.