Jordan Montgomery’s Rangers Reunion Still Possible? Price Tag Impacts Talks Despite 2023 World Series Heroics

The offseason is not going as expected for Jordan Montgomery. The Texas Rangers’ reunion for 2024 with their World Series hero Monty seems increasingly unlikely. There is no doubt that the two have been closely linked for various reasons. But despite initial fan and media speculation could it be that this may not really work out? 

The fact that them signing the former New York Yankee is not materializing, brings to light several factors that are dimming the light on a potential deal. On one hand, there are a bunch of reports suggesting that the Rangers and Montgomery are a match made in heaven. On the other, there are hurdles. As the chatter toggles between ‘deal and ‘no deal’ will they be able to figure this out? 

The Uncertainty Surrounding Texas Rangers

One of the biggest factors here is the financial constraint. The primary obstacle is Monty’s price tag. Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News reports he could cost over $30 million annually. As a result, this would push The Lone Stars into a deep luxury tax territory. They’re already projected for a $160 million commitment in 2025 and possess over $100 million guaranteed after 2026. But if the financial aspect were to resolve, would they still consider him? 

Well, there has been an evident lack of active pursuit. Sources including WEEI’s Rob Bradford have indicated that Texas haven’t actively pursued the World Series winner. Let’s note that while his price tag may not be a complete dealbreaker, it sure depletes an interest to pursue him. One can make of it that their interest isn’t as strong as initially believed.

Given that Rangers’ inclination toward Gumby has dwindled, the other teams in the mix come into perspective. The San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies are also keen on having Montgomery on board. But it’s not as easy as it looks. Despite having numerous team eying him, they come with their own bouts of reluctance. 

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Deal or No Deal For Lefty Jordan Montgomery Amid A Prolonged Offseason

The Angels, given their $173 million payroll, seem interested, but the owner Arte Moreno’s inhibition for long-term pitcher deals makes it quite uncertain. The Phillies too are on the fence taking into account their projected luxury tax. It would be wiser for them to wait for a price drop on top-tier free agents, which of course includes the 2023 All-MLB Second Team. Perhaps the downside outweighs the upside for LA and the City of Brotherly Love.

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It’s worth looking at this scenario if money and inhibitions are taken out of the picture. Montgomery’s strong 2023 season in which he donned a 3.20 ERA, World Series title, has made him a precious asset. His average has been 30 starts and a 3.48 ERA spread across the previous three seasons. Durability and consistency are hence not a concern. Now while a Rangers-Montgomery reunion isn’t entirely chalked out, financial considerations, lack of active pursuit, and competition from chasers make it increasingly tough. One can only wait and watch.