MLB Network expert Jon Heyman believes that one of the best pitchers available on the free agent market may yet find a home with the Chicago Cubs.
During a network appearance Heyman, who also writes for the New York Post, pointed out that the left-hander, who helped the Texas Rangers win their first World Series last November, still has four teams that would be reasonable destinations for him.
The Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, San Francisco Giants, and Los Angeles Angels are the teams that made those landing locations. Chris Young, general manager of the Texas Rangers, stated last week that it was doubtful the team will make any more big free-agent signings.
Heyman asserted that the Cubs “cannot be ruled out.”
The Cubs’ most notable offseason acquisition was the signing of Japanese pitcher Shota Imanaga, who is expected to start as the second or third pitcher in a rotation that includes Justin Steele.
However, the Cubs would have a left-hander coming off of an excellent postseason that most assumed would enhance his value on the free-agent market if they could entice Montgomery to join them, which would alter the dynamic of their rotation.
That hasn’t been the case in reality.
Montgomery recorded a 3-1 record with a 2.90 ERA in the postseason. That was supposed to be the ideal springboard for him to sign a contract worth more than $100 million. Montgomery, who began the regular season in St. Louis before being dealt to Texas, also finished 10-11. He walked 48, struck out 166, and had a 3.20 ERA.
With the Rangers, where he went 4-2 with a 2.79 ERA, those stats improved.
Montgomery is one of four well-known free agents that Scott Boras represents who have not yet agreed to terms as free agents. The others are pitcher Blake Snell, infielder Matt Chapman, and former Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger.
Award-winning sportswriter Matthew Postins covers the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and Philadelphia Phillies for Sports Illustrated/FanNation.
