Assessing Arizona Diamondbacks Rotation After Surprise Jordan Montgomery Pickup

The Arizona Diamondbacks surprised the world of MLB on Tuesday. As the Opening Day comes closer and closer, they made a splash and snagged veteran lefty starter Jordan Montgomery in a one-year deal. This move significantly is all set to bolster their starting rotation. But it’s worth wondering, how will the recent injury to Eduardo Rodriguez affect Montgomery’s presence in the D-Backs’ pitching staff? 

Well, Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly solidified themselves as a dominant starting duo in the 2023 season. Gallen, the reigning Opening Day starter, owns a balanced arsenal and boasts a knack for inducing groundouts. Kelly complements him with his fastball adding to the duo’s competitive spirit. While these two remain the undisputed anchors of the rotation where will Monty fit?

E-Rod on the Shelf, Jordan Montgomery Steps Up

The initial plan featured Eduardo Rodriguez who was a big-ticket free-agent acquisition. He slotted in as the third starter. But unfortunately, a lat strain threw a wrench into that plan which sent him to the IL. This is where the $25 million Monty could fill in. 

The southpaw, known for his durability, ability to eat innings and limit walks, is a steady presence in Rodriguez’s absence. Apart from being reliable, his proven experience in the past few seasons has the Diamondbacks drooling over having him onboard. 

Torey Lovullo, Manager of the Diamondbacks earlier projected youngsters Tommy Henry, Brandon Pfaadt, and Ryne Nelson to fill out the back of the rotation. Moreover, Montgomery’s arrival likely pushes Nelson out for now, however, it creates a positive ripple effect encouraging competition. The competition for spots will push all the young pitchers to develop even faster and better. Now, once Rodriguez returns, the battle for spots in the rotation will again intensify, keeping everyone performing their best.

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A Well-Rounded Rotation with Upside – The Future of Arizona Diamondbacks 

A well-rounded rotation with Gallen, Kelly, Montgomery, and a healthy Rodriguez, the Diamondbacks would boast a solid amalgamation of experience and youth. Montgomery’s groundball tendencies pose as a perfect fit behind Arizona’s stellar defense. With that, his ERA will potentially lower even further. The young talents like Henry, Pfaadt, and Nelson will continue to develop, aiding in depth and as future options.

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Despite some initial clarity, there do exist some questions. What about the order behind Gallen? What about the exact timeline for Rodriguez’s return? Well, one thing is for sure, the Diamondbacks’ starting rotation is undoubtedly stronger with Montgomery on the team. While the question marks will slowly resolve in time, this newfound depth gives Arizona a fighting chance in the ever-so-competitive National League West.