The Boston Red Sox have faced considerable scrutiny for their lack of activity this offseason, but signs suggest they may be nearing a significant addition.
Recent reports have linked starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery to the Red Sox. Buster Olney of ESPN confirmed on Monday that Boston has engaged in discussions with the left-hander and is weighing the possibility of signing him. Additionally, veteran MLB insider Peter Gammons relayed information from an executive indicating that Montgomery and the Red Sox had a positive meeting and could potentially reach an agreement in the future.
Red Sox fans are adopting a cautious approach, preferring to believe it when they see it. A report from last week suggested that Montgomery may not fit within Boston’s budget at his current asking price.
Jordan Montgomery, one of agent Scott Boras‘ prominent clients who remains unsigned, stands alongside Blake Snell as one of the top starting pitchers available in free agency. Boras is reportedly waiting for teams to meet his clients’ contract demands.
While Montgomery’s asking price may currently exceed Boston’s budget, other teams could enter the picture if he adjusts his expectations. However, the Red Sox possess a unique advantage.
Montgomery joined the Texas Rangers from the St. Louis Cardinals in a trade at the deadline last season. Throughout 2023, he compiled a 10-11 record with a 3.20 ERA across 32 starts. Notably, he boasts a postseason track record of 3-1 with a 2.63 ERA.
With a payroll around $160 million, the Red Sox rank 11th in MLB and comfortably below the luxury-tax threshold of $237 million, as per Spotrac. Despite this financial flexibility, the team has emphasized a long-term approach and has been cautious about splurging on free agents, a strategy that has drawn criticism from some quarters, including from one of the team’s star players.
