The Mets are monitoring free agent pitcher Jordan Montgomery‘s asking price, but other teams are likely to jump in before it falls to a level the team is comfortable with, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
Montgomery, who is represented by agent Scott Boras, is seeking a contract similar to Aaron Nola (seven years, $172 million), but baseball insiders told Sherman teams have him in the range of Eduardo Rodríguez (four years, $80 million).
Cody Bellinger, another Boras client, signed a three-year, $80 million contract this week with player opt-outs after this season and next season. Sherman speculated whether a similar arrangement might work for Montgomery. The Red Sox and Giants were two teams Sherman said may land the lefty. Both clubs are also considering free agent pitcher Blake Snell, another Boras client.
Looking ahead to the 2024 offseason, Sherman noted the Mets could have as many as four open spots in the starting rotation due to free agency. Thus, he believes signing Montgomery to a multi-year deal makes sense for now and the future.
Montgomery, 31, went 10-11 with 3.20 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 3.56 FIP last season in 32 starts with the Cardinals and Rangers. He struck out 166 in 188 2/3 innings. Sherman likes that he has experience playing in New York as a Yankee and in October last year when he made six playoff starts with the champion Rangers.
