FILE- In this Oct. 21, 2018, file photo, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora speaks to media during a baseball work out at Fenway Park in Boston, as they prepare for the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Red Sox rehired Cora as manager Friday, Nov. 6, 2020, less than a year after letting him go because of his role in the Houston Astros cheating scandal. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola, FIle)
The Boston Red Sox have faced widespread criticism for their lack of activity during this offseason, but signs indicate they may be nearing a significant acquisition.
Numerous reports in recent days have linked starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery to the Red Sox. ESPN’s Buster Olney confirmed on Monday that Boston has engaged in discussions with the left-hander and is contemplating signing him. Veteran MLB insider Peter Gammons shared that an executive informed him of a “productive meeting” between Montgomery and the Red Sox, hinting at a potential agreement in the works.
However, skepticism remains among Red Sox fans until a deal is finalized. A report from last week suggested that Montgomery’s current salary demands may exceed Boston’s budget.
Montgomery is among the notable clients represented by agent Scott Boras who remain unsigned. Alongside Blake Snell, another Boras client, Montgomery stands as one of the top starting pitchers available in free agency. Boras is reportedly holding out for teams to meet his clients’ salary expectations.
While other teams could enter the fray if Montgomery adjusts his asking price, the Red Sox possess a unique advantage. Montgomery joined the Texas Rangers from the St. Louis Cardinals in a trade deadline deal last season. Throughout the 2023 season, he posted a 10-11 record with a 3.20 ERA across 32 total starts. Additionally, Montgomery boasts a postseason track record, going 3-1 with a 2.63 ERA.
Currently, the Red Sox maintain a payroll of approximately $160 million, placing them 11th among MLB teams and comfortably below the luxury-tax threshold of $237 million. Despite this financial flexibility, the team has expressed a cautious approach to spending in free agency, emphasizing long-term planning. However, this strategy has drawn criticism, including from some of the team’s prominent players.
This article was initially published on Larry Brown Sports and has been shared here with permission.
