The Arizona Diamondbacks are heading into the MLB offseason with tighter financial constraints after left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery exercised his $22.5 million vesting option for the 2025 season. According to a report by MLB’s Mark Feinsand on X, Montgomery made this choice despite a difficult season, finishing with a career-worst 6.23 ERA over 25 appearances and 117 innings pitched.
With Montgomery’s salary commitment now locked in, the Diamondbacks face a challenging budget, estimated to allow only around $28-35 million for roster moves unless they decide to increase payroll beyond last season’s record level. General Manager Mike Hazen must now carefully strategize for 2025, a task complicated by Montgomery’s decision after the pitcher met his vesting criteria with 21 starts.
This financial strain may limit the Diamondbacks’ ability to retain key free agents like Christian Walker and Joc Pederson without pushing their budget limits. Hazen has also emphasized the need to bolster the bullpen, further complicating the team’s offseason strategy.
In a post-season press conference, Hazen remained optimistic about Montgomery’s potential for improvement next year. However, concerns linger due to Montgomery’s recent drop in velocity—his sinker and fastball averaged nearly 2 MPH slower than in 2023—which may dampen his trade value as teams consider his current form.
