Montgomery's First Choice: Texas Rangers

Left-handed pitcher Montgomery, one of the top free agents remaining on the market, seems to have his sights set on the Texas Rangers. While several teams are vying for his services, a source with knowledge of the situation revealed that Montgomery considers Texas his "first choice." The Yankees, whom Montgomery played for before being traded to the Cardinals in 2022, have also shown interest, but it seems that the left-hander has a strong preference for the Rangers.

MLB Network insider Jon Heyman also stated that the Rangers are the most likely team to sign Montgomery. The 31-year-old played a crucial role in the Rangers' journey to their first World Series title in 2023, posting an impressive 2.79 ERA over 67 2/3 innings in the regular season and delivering strong performances in the postseason.

Earlier reports suggested that the uncertainty surrounding the Rangers' TV rights deal might hinder them from making a top-tier signing this offseason. However, Heyman now believes that the situation will be resolved soon, granting the Rangers the financial flexibility to pursue high-priced free agents like Montgomery.

Montgomery and his agent, Scott Boras, are looking for a contract exceeding the six-year, $162 million deal that left-hander Carlos Rodón signed with the Yankees last season, according to sources. The left-hander's strong track record and contribution to the Rangers' success make him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their starting pitching rotation.

Six Teams Interested in Montgomery

While two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell is widely regarded as the best starting pitcher available in free agency, many teams are reportedly interested in Montgomery. MLB Network insider Jon Heyman listed six clubs that are vying for the 2023 World Series champion, with the Giants and Angels leading the pack alongside Snell.

The Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and Phillies are also in the mix for Montgomery's services. The Rangers, the team Montgomery helped lead to a championship last season, have been linked to him previously. However, uncertainties surrounding the club's TV rights deal may have temporarily hindered significant expenditures. Nonetheless, Montgomery remains an enticing option for teams in need of pitching reinforcements.

Montgomery's Landing Spot Now that Yamamoto is Off the Board

With Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto securing a massive 12-year, $325 million deal with the Dodgers, attention now shifts to other top remaining free agents, including Montgomery. Although Yamamoto garnered interest from numerous teams, some of them may turn to fallback options such as Montgomery and Snell.

The Boston Red Sox, who expressed their aggressive pursuit of pitching during the Winter Meetings, could be a frontrunner for Montgomery's services. The team previously contacted Montgomery's agent in November, and the left-hander happens to reside in Boston, where his wife recently began a residency at a local hospital.

A reunion with the Yankees is also a possibility as Montgomery played for them before being traded to the Cardinals in 2022. The New York team has internally discussed the idea of bringing him back in free agency, according to reports.

Other teams that could be interested in Montgomery include the Giants, Cubs, Angels, and his current team, the Rangers. These teams were not among the seven that were actively involved in the bidding for Yamamoto, making Montgomery a potential target for them.

As the offseason progresses, it will be intriguing to see which team ultimately secures Montgomery's services and how his next chapter in baseball unfolds.