October Hero Set to Make His Arizona Debut Friday

Jordan Montgomery Making Arizona Debut Friday

Montgomery’s free agency lasted longer than anyone expected, largely thanks to his agent Scott Boras. He was one of several players represented by Boras who remained unsigned well into March. But on March 26, Arizona came calling. After almost a month of preparation, Montgomery will begin his 2024 campaign when he starts against the San Francisco Giants. He will be challenged right off the bat, as he goes up against defending NL Cy Young winner and fellow Boras client Blake Snell. Snell had his own difficulty signing in free agency, not joining the Giants until late March. On the bright side for Monty, Snell is off to a rough start. In two starts, the southpaw is 0-2 with a 12.86 ERA. He has given up 10 runs on nine hits across seven total innings.

After helping the Texas Rangers to their first World Series title last season, Monty will pitch for the team they defeated in the Fall Classic. The Diamondbacks made improvements to an already-loaded roster in the offseason, but are treading water so far with a 9-11 start. However, Montgomery will add a steady arm to their rotation. With each successive stop he’s made in his career thus far, his reputation has only improved.

To accommodate Montgomery on the roster, Arizona made a few roster moves on Friday. They placed pitcher Ryne Nelson on the 15-day IL with a right elbow contusion. Utility infielder Jace Peterson, on last year’s World Series roster, was designated for assignment. Along with Montgomery, outfielder Pavin Smith is being recalled from Triple-A Reno.